description Kirkuk Citadel Overview
The Kirkuk Citadel is a historic fortified settlement on a raised mound in Kirkuk, Iraq. The site is an ancient urban landmark whose defensive position and accumulated remains reflect the long history of settlement at the location. Its notable features include ancient walls and a mosque that local tradition associates with the tomb of Daniel. The citadel is therefore both an archaeological mound and a surviving historic feature within the modern city.
help Kirkuk Citadel FAQ
Where is the Kirkuk Citadel?
The Kirkuk Citadel is in the center of Kirkuk, Iraq, on a raised archaeological mound. Its elevated position helped make it the historic core of the city.
How old is the Kirkuk Citadel?
Archaeological evidence indicates settlement at the site reaches back to at least the second millennium BC. The exact origin of the citadel is debated, with some historians connecting its earliest construction to the Gutians and others to Assyrian rule.
What can be seen at the Kirkuk Citadel?
The site has historic walls, residential areas, religious buildings, markets, and remains from multiple periods. One documented feature is Bab al-Toub, a surviving gate on the western side.
Is the Kirkuk Citadel a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
The Kirkuk Citadel was added to Iraq's UNESCO Tentative List in 2021. That status recognizes its historical importance but is different from full inscription on the World Heritage List.
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