Ishtar tv/
By Ahora Qadi
ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – Nestled in the Semel district of Duhok
province, the Faida Archaeological Park stands as a testament to millennia of
human ingenuity and civilization. Dating back to approximately 2700 BCE and
spanning more than 102 hectares, the site is considered one of the most
historically significant landmarks in the Kurdistan Region.
This ancient park features 13 rock-carved reliefs and a remarkably
preserved 10-kilometer-long irrigation canal, offering rare insights into the
sophisticated engineering and water management systems of early Mesopotamian
societies.
An Assyrian legacy carved in stone
Archaeologist Kovan Ihsan notes that Faida’s structures belong to the
Neo-Assyrian period, though the identity of the monarch who commissioned the
project remains uncertain due to the variety of inscriptions and stylistic
differences found throughout the site.
Recent studies suggest parts of the park may have been initiated during
the reign of Tiglath-Pileser III (circa 825 BCE), but the major excavations and
hydraulic developments are believed to have been carried out under King
Sennacherib, who constructed one of the most complex irrigation networks in the
ancient region of Bahdinan.
Kurdistan’s archaeology renaissance since 2003
Since 2003, the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has fostered a
stable and supportive environment for archaeological research, prompting
international organizations and foreign academic missions to invest in
restoration and excavation efforts across Duhok.
As a result, over 2,700 archaeological sites have been officially
registered in Duhok province alone.
“Preserving heritage, attracting the world”
Speaking to Kurdistan24, Duhok’s Director of Antiquities, Bex Breefkani,
emphasized the local government’s commitment to cultural preservation:
“Our teams have worked for years to restore and organize a number of historical
sites to prepare them for visitors, showcasing the region’s rich cultural
legacy.”
He added that Duhok’s archaeological landmarks—many of which possess
exceptional historical and cultural value—position the province as a rising
destination for cultural tourism both within Iraq and the broader region.
A model for sustainable tourism and preservation
According to the Directorate of Antiquities, 64 sites have been restored
in the past five years, with 90% of the work funded directly by the KRG. The
remainder was supported by international consulates, universities, and cultural
organizations.
Looking forward, the Kurdistan Regional Government aims to capitalize on
its archaeological wealth by expanding restoration programs and infrastructure
development, transforming historical landmarks like Faida into vibrant centers
of education, tourism, and heritage conservation—showcasing the deep-rooted
civilizations that flourished across the Kurdish homeland.
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