Archaeological site
Wasit prepares restoration plans for Jassan Hill archaeological site
WASIT – Wasit’s Antiquities and Heritage Directorate is preparing detailed estimates for the preservation, restoration, and excavation of Jassan Hill, an archaeological site in the Badra district, located 70 kilometers east of Kut near the Iraq-Iran border. Local activists and residents aim to transform the site into a tourist and heritage attraction, seeking to preserve a history that spans over 1,200 years.
According to Ahmad Jabbar, an activist involved in the project, Jassan Hill, which stands at 95 meters, resembles Erbil’s citadel in its structure and clay houses. Since 2003, around 500 families have left the area in search of modern living, leaving behind about 50 families, most of whom are displaced from other areas, including Anbar.
However, four months after the initial exploration of the site, the only notable change was the opening of a new café inside one of the historical houses.
Hassanein Ali Mohammed, the inspector of antiquities and heritage in Wasit, told 964media that Jassan Hill is a recognized archaeological site in Iraq. He confirmed that estimated surveys have been completed for the site’s restoration and excavation.
“The region was inhabited until the 1940s, but residents left due to environmental and service issues. Several heritage homes still stand,” Mohammed said. He added that there is a future plan to document, restore, and convert these houses into cultural and heritage centers for Wasit.
Ahmad Jabbar emphasized that the site has been populated for at least 1,200 years, with physical evidence supporting this timeline. Like other ancient hills in the area, Jassan Hill remains largely unexcavated, awaiting further archaeological work.
“Until two decades ago, the site had over 500 houses and several commercial shops. After 2003, residents moved to flatter areas, leaving only 50 families on the hill, most of whom are displaced,” Jabbar explained. He noted that ongoing efforts aim to attract former residents who moved to Baghdad or other provinces, as well as local tourists.
The community is seeking government support to proceed with restoration efforts. Jabbar added that Jassan Hill shares similarities with the Erbil Citadel, and the goal is to rejuvenate the site’s tourism potential, similar to projects in the nearby Zurbatiyah area.
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