Erbil Citadel

World Heritage Research

Discover scientific research and academic studies that deepen our understanding of Erbil Citadel from its history and significance to its conservation, management, and contemporary challenges.

• Investigating the impact of the Iraqi film industry on attracting foreign tourists

  Films significantly boost tourism to Erbil Citadel, one of Iraq's oldest heritage sites dating back 6000 B.C., by enhancing the country's positive image and travel motivation. A study found that 'Film Influence' directly impacts tourist behavior (β = 0.72), with films effectively promoting cultural attractions and strengthening Iraq's tourism brand. The research, combining quantitative surveys of 100 international tourists and qualitative interviews with industry experts, used SPSS and PLS-SEM for data analysis. Experts highlighted films as a key driver in stimulating visitation and marketing heritage sites. Policymakers are advised to leverage film production, develop infrastructure, and create targeted campaigns to harness this strategic tool for tourism growth.

  Nejmeddin, A. I. (2026). توێژینەوە ی کاریگەری پیشەسازی فیلمی عێراقی لەسەر ڕاکێشانی گەشتیارانی بیانی. Koya University Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences, 9(1), 484–490. https://doi.org/10.14500/kujhss.v9n1y2026.pp484-490

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• Mutation or Reusing: A Decision Based on Functional Analysis of Historical Houses’ Configurations

  Quantitative spatial analysis emerges as a powerful tool for assessing the adaptive reuse potential of historic residential architecture while preserving cultural value. A study focusing on courtyard houses within Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Iraq, demonstrates that this approach can effectively evaluate spatial performance and circulation logic to inform conservation strategies. By integrating functional analysis with statistical validation—using Euclidean distance and Pearson correlation—the research identifies key characteristics compatible with adaptive reuse across different contexts. This method offers a rigorous model for sustainable planning in similar heritage settings, bridging theory and practice to guide informed decision-making.

  Goriel, W. A. S., Molnár, T., & Zoltán, E. S. (2026). Mutation or Reusing: A Decision Based on Functional Analysis of Historical Houses’ Configurations. Buildings, 16(10), 1871. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings16101871

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• The strategy of urban development of the citatel cities comparative study between design strategy of the development of the citadel of aleppo and the citadel of erbil

  Historical citadels significantly influence urban development and shape city centers, serving as both tourist attractions and strategic landmarks. A comparative study between the Citadel of Aleppo and Erbil's Citadel reveals that Erbil's isolation from its role as an urban node has led to a loss of integration with surrounding areas, despite its historical significance and current status as a capital in Iraq's Kurdistan region. The research identifies a lack of clear strategic development perception for Erbil's citadel, which impacts the integrity of the citadel and its historical characteristics. By analyzing Aleppo's model, known for its effective urban development strategy, the study proposes that integrating citadels into their surrounding urban fabric can enhance their role as constructive landmarks and tourist attractions.

  Al-Hinkawi, W. S., & alkubaisi, S. F. (2026). The strategy of urban development of the citatel cities comparative study between design strategy of the development of the citadel of aleppo and the citadel of erbil. Iraqi Journal of Architecture and Planning, 9(19). https://doi.org/10.36041/2617-9555.1235

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• Preserving the Past to Shape the Future: The Evolution of Office Spaces Through Historic Building Adaptation

  Adaptive reuse of historic buildings into modern office spaces can successfully balance cultural heritage preservation with contemporary workplace needs, enhancing employee satisfaction and creativity. A study focusing on Erbil Citadel houses found that integrating historical features—such as aesthetics, natural light, and airflow—into office environments fosters a sustainable and functional work setting. Survey data from 60 respondents revealed strong preferences for spaces that blend tradition with modern functionality, emphasizing the importance of sustainable practices and technological integration in shared areas. The research highlights the need for decision-makers to adopt culturally attuned strategies that align heritage conservation with community requirements, offering a framework for reconciling historical narratives with modern office demands.

  Abu-Lail, D. M. A., Goriel, W. A. S., Molnár, T., Bachmann, B., Medvegy, G., Borsos, Á., & Zoltán, E. S. (2025). Preserving the Past to Shape the Future: The Evolution of Office Spaces Through Historic Building Adaptation. Buildings, 15(4), 574. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15040574

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• Examining the Hashim Chalbi House’s Spatial Aspects in Erbil Citadel: Understanding the Museum’s Configuration Potential via Depthmap Analysis

  Space syntax analysis reveals the Hashim Chalbi House, a historic residence turned museum within Erbil Citadel (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), holds significant potential for conservation and restoration while preserving its architectural and cultural integrity. This study addresses a recognized gap in spatial analyses of heritage buildings by using depthmap analysis to map and interpret the house's spatial configuration, offering insights into social and cultural interactions. The findings provide actionable guidance for maintaining the museum's historical authenticity and functionality, ensuring that future conservation efforts balance structural preservation with adaptive reuse.

  Goriel, W. A. S., Molnár, T., & Zoltán, E. S. (2025). Examining the Hashim Chalbi House’s Spatial Aspects in Erbil Citadel: Understanding the Museum’s Configuration Potential via Depthmap Analysis. Buildings, 15(12), 2134. https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15122134

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• Analysis of vernacular dwellings in Iraq: A comparative study of Erbil citadel and old Akre

  Vernacular architecture in Erbil Citadel and Old Akre, two historic Iraqi settlements, demonstrates context-sensitive design principles that address climatic, topographical, and social factors while maintaining cultural continuity. A comparative analysis reveals how both sites efficiently use locally available resources—such as mud brick and timber in Erbil or stone and lime in Old Akre—to achieve thermal comfort, privacy, and community integration. Erbil’s compact, inward-oriented courtyard houses contrast with Old Akre’s terraced layout, adapted to mountainous terrain, yet both showcase sustainable design strategies that remain relevant for contemporary urban development. This study highlights the potential of traditional practices as a framework for climate-responsive and culturally integrated architecture.

  DHUOKI, R. M. S. B., & Çağnan, Ç. (2025). Analysis of vernacular dwellings in Iraq: A comparative study of Erbil citadel and old Akre. Yakın Mimarlık Dergisi, 9(2), 131–155. https://doi.org/10.32955/neujna2025921089

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• The Inherent Sustainability of Traditional Architecture in the Citadel of Erbil: With Reference to Residential Buildings in Erbil City

  Traditional architecture in the Citadel of Erbil demonstrates inherent sustainability that can inform modern residential design. The study developed tailored Sustainability Assessment Methods (SEAM and SSAM) to evaluate environmental and social performance, comparing three traditional and three contemporary houses in Erbil. Findings suggest that traditional designs—rooted in local climate adaptation and cultural values—offer sustainable alternatives for contemporary urban planning. The research highlights the potential of integrating traditional architectural principles into modern residential buildings to enhance sustainability, providing actionable guidelines for policymakers and designers.

  Roza Saber Maarof. (2025). THE INHERENT SUSTAINABILITY OF TRADITIONAL ARCHITECTURE IN THE CITADEL OF ERBIL: WITH REFERENCE TO RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS IN ERBIL CITY. International Journal of Applied Mathematics, 38(10s), 220–265. https://doi.org/10.12732/ijam.v38i10s.933

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