Four-day journey
Iranian cyclists on 300-kilometre journey to Erbil Citadel promote sports and healthy living
ERBIL – Three cyclists from Iran are cycling over 300 kilometres to visit the historic Erbil Citadel, aiming to promote sports and healthy living among young people. The athletes, who began their journey in Urmia, West Azerbaijan Province in Iran, are now on their third day of travel through the Kurdistan Region in Iraq.
“Our goal is to experience the stunning landscapes of Choman and Ali Beg resorts, and of course, to see the Erbil Citadel up close,” Farhad Sheikh, one of the cyclists, told 964media. “We reached Haji Omaran after two days, and expect to arrive in Erbil in another two days. We hope to encourage young people to stay active and embrace a healthy lifestyle through this journey.”
The cyclists have faced challenges due to the lack of dedicated cycling lanes in the Kurdistan region, making their journey more difficult. Despite this, Sheikh expressed optimism, emphasising that their mission goes beyond personal adventure and focuses on inspiring others to embrace physical fitness and environmental awareness.
The three cyclists have chosen to camp along the way rather than stay in hotels, carrying their own tent to sleep outdoors.
Their destination, the Erbil Citadel, is one of the most iconic landmarks in the Middle East and is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. Perched atop a 25–30 meter mound, the citadel offers a commanding view of modern Erbil. The site has been continuously built upon for over 6,000 years, creating a rich historical and cultural legacy.
The citadel, once a bustling fortified town with residential areas, mosques, and markets, played a central role in the region’s social and economic life. However, by the mid-20th century, most residents had relocated. In 2007, the remaining families were moved as part of a major restoration effort, and in 2014, the Erbil Citadel was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Restoration work continues to preserve its cultural significance today.