3,000 years old

Archaeological Finds in Erbil Unveil Assyrian Period Relics

ERBIL, January 8 – In the Sarai neighborhood near Erbil Castle, archaeologists unearthed two significant artifacts from the Assyrian period, dated approximately 3,000 years ago. The discovery includes what is identified as one of the three fences of Erbil Castle and a stone piece with cuneiform inscriptions.

The fence, uncovered after a three-meter deep excavation in an area known as the castle’s garage, is believed to be the second fence of the historic Erbil Castle. The second artifact, a stone piece, features the inscription “Great Lady,” a term associated with the deity Ishtar.

Hezha Zahir, head of the archaeological department at Erbil Castle, informed 964media that the French Institute for the Near East provided funding for this excavation project. Future plans include transforming the site into a museum.

A collaborative effort between the local archaeological team and the French Institute is set to expand in April this year, aiming to further investigate and uncover more about Erbil’s historical significance.