Living in the Area

Duhok

A city of peace and diversity cradled in modern Mesopotamia. Mesopotamia is often referred to as The Cradle of Civilization, and for good reason. Duhok and its surrounding areas are home to a host of ancient archaeological sites such as Charstwin Cave (Auskani Empire– 147-226 B. C.), Malta Hill (Assyrian Empire– 900 B.C.) and Halmata Cave (by the Assyrian King Sanharib– 704-681 B.C), to name a few. Other lesser-explored ruins and ancient sites can be found around the city through a hike to the top of one of Duhok’s many mountains or, sometimes, just a quick stop off of the highway. Lalish, the famous Yazidi pilgrimage site, ancient Assyrian carvings at Khenis, the picturesque plateau city of Amedi and the ancient and legendary Delal Bridge in Zakho are just a few places that locals and visitors enjoy exploring. Duhok Governorate offers remarkable touristic, historical and archaeological wonders that have yet to be discovered by much of the world. Duhok Governorate is located at the crossroads of three countries; Iraq, Turkey and Syria. It locates on a strategic gateway that connect Kurdistan to the outside world. The city is economically sustainable, and it has a commercial value to the entire Kurdistan region of Iraq. The population is approximately 1.5 million. And it is considered to be one of the cities that consists of diverse nations compared to other cities such as; Assyrians, Chaldeans, Arabs and Armenians. There are three main religions practiced in Dohuk; Islam, Christianity and Yazdies religion. Additionally, the city is widely-opened for any other religions to be practiced. Churches can be found throughout the city, and holy Yazidi shrines are located in various parts of Duhok Governorate. There were many civil wars that occurred in Northern Iraq and countries around which let many people be displaced and become refugees. Dohuk is a second home to many displaced people and refugees. For example, in 2014 when ISIS takes over Mosel and Shingal, their citizens fled the city. And Syrians fled their country and become refugees in Iraq, particularly Dohuk.