Erbil Governorate

Historic Fortifications and Castles

This collection features prominent fortifications across the Erbil region, centered on the UNESCO-listed Citadel of Erbil, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited sites. The list includes the 16th-century Khanzad Citadel, built during the Soran Emirate, and the ruins of Dwin Castle, historically linked to the Ayyubid dynasty. These sites illustrate the region's strategic importance through various eras, ranging from ancient archaeological tells to medieval stone fortresses and Ottoman-period architecture.

Historic Fortifications and Castles — Map

Sarchia Khursheed / CC BY-SA 4.0

A

Citadel of Erbil

A UNESCO World Heritage site and ancient tell rising 30 meters above the city. It features traditional Ottoman-period houses and archaeological layers dating back thousands of years.

B

Citadel of Erbil

The defensive perimeter and structures of the ancient citadel, representing millennia of continuous urban habitation and traditional Middle Eastern architecture.

C

Khanzad (Banaman) Citadel

A 16th-century stone fortress built by Princess Khanzad during the Soran Emirate. It features four circular corner towers and sits on a hill overlooking the Erbil-Shaqlawa road.

D

Bshar

Stone castle structure located in the rural highlands near the Great Zab river.

E

Dwin Castle

Medieval ruins historically associated with the Ayyubid dynasty and the family of Saladin. The site contains remnants of stone walls and defensive works.

F

Hay Shurta roundabout

A modern urban landmark featuring castle-inspired architectural design at a major city intersection.

G

Koya citadel

Historical fortification located in the center of Koya, serving as a remnant of the town's administrative and defensive history.

H

Lwlany

Historical site located within the central district of the city.

I

San

Castle-style structure located south of the main city center.

J

h akoy

Site situated within the perimeter of the ancient Erbil Citadel.

K

Maidanoka

Historical fortification ruins located in the mountainous Soran district.

L

Jezhnikan

Local stone fortification located north of Erbil.

M

Maly mhmd mla qadr

Structure featuring traditional castle-inspired architecture.

N

Rebaz Barznjy

Local landmark featuring castle-like architectural elements.

O

Salar agha

Stone structure situated in the northern outskirts of the city.

P

Qlat pyrt shary htwlyry !!

Defensive site located within the central historical complex of the city.

Q

Aran

Local castle-style structure in the southern district.

R

Grwzyn

Remote stone ruins located in the mountainous terrain of the Erbil Governorate.

S

Eski Koçyiğit I.Ö.O. kalıntıları

Ruins of a former primary school building located near the northern border region.

T

Eski Koçyiğit

Remnants of historical stone structures in the mountainous border region.

Other Lists

محافظة أربيل Essentials Scenic Viewpoints and Hills Notable Mosques and Islamic Sites Natural Wonders