The Erbil Citadel renovation has reached a major milestone. Officials have completed upgrades to the main streets and pedestrian alleys inside the ancient fortress. This historic site now offers a safer and more attractive destination for tourists and local visitors alike.
The renovation effort unfolded under the close supervision of Prime Minister Masrour Barzani. It began shortly after UNESCO listed the Erbil Citadel as a world heritage site. Authorities launched the project to elevate the Citadel into a regional tourism hotspot.
According to Falah Hassan, who leads the High Committee for the Revitalization of Erbil Citadel, over 95% of the renovation work is now complete. The restored main roads, alleys, and narrow streets reflect international standards for preserving cultural heritage.
Hassan stressed that years of continuous work have brought the site to a new level of cleanliness, safety, and aesthetic appeal. Now, visitors experience a modernized environment without losing the site’s historical charm.
The Erbil Citadel renovation included several major developments. Workers rebuilt the main street and multiple alleys using global architectural standards. They also completed a full restoration of the historic Citadel Bathhouse. Notably, the U.S. government provided financial assistance for this effort.
In addition, teams enhanced lighting across both interior and exterior areas. These improvements included new fixtures for streets, pathways, and historic walls. Restoration crews also focused on rebuilding several key homes inside the Citadel that carry deep historical value.
The government isn’t stopping here. New projects are planned to continue improving the site’s infrastructure and visitor experience. One of the top priorities is increasing the amount of green space within the Citadel walls. Another key task is redesigning and rebuilding the main entrance to the historic district.
Leaders also envision new cultural amenities to enrich the area. These include a traditional teahouse, a local-style restaurant, and even a hotel. All of these features aim to strengthen the Citadel’s identity as a tourist-friendly location that blends heritage with modern comfort.
The Erbil Citadel renovation stands as a strong symbol of Iraq’s investment in cultural tourism. By revitalizing this iconic site, the Kurdistan Region hopes to attract more visitors and share its ancient history with the world.