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.
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.
Citadel of Erbil
The defensive perimeter and structures of the ancient citadel, representing millennia of continuous urban habitation and traditional Middle Eastern architecture.
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.
Bshar
Stone castle structure located in the rural highlands near the Great Zab river.
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.
Hay Shurta roundabout
A modern urban landmark featuring castle-inspired architectural design at a major city intersection.
Koya citadel
Historical fortification located in the center of Koya, serving as a remnant of the town's administrative and defensive history.
Lwlany
Historical site located within the central district of the city.
San
Castle-style structure located south of the main city center.
h akoy
Site situated within the perimeter of the ancient Erbil Citadel.
Maidanoka
Historical fortification ruins located in the mountainous Soran district.
Jezhnikan
Local stone fortification located north of Erbil.
Maly mhmd mla qadr
Structure featuring traditional castle-inspired architecture.
Rebaz Barznjy
Local landmark featuring castle-like architectural elements.
Salar agha
Stone structure situated in the northern outskirts of the city.
Qlat pyrt shary htwlyry !!
Defensive site located within the central historical complex of the city.
Aran
Local castle-style structure in the southern district.
Grwzyn
Remote stone ruins located in the mountainous terrain of the Erbil Governorate.
Eski Koçyiğit I.Ö.O. kalıntıları
Ruins of a former primary school building located near the northern border region.
Eski Koçyiğit
Remnants of historical stone structures in the mountainous border region.
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