US Ambassador highlights cultural preservation efforts at historic Erbil Citadel
"We are committed to supporting the KRG in their efforts to preserve the IKR's rich history and culture and share it with the world," Ambassador Romanowski stated during her visit.
Nov. 24, 2024
ERBIL (Kurdistan 24) – United States Ambassador to Iraq Alina L. Romanowski conducted an inspection visit to the ancient Erbil Citadel on Sunday, underscoring Washington's ongoing commitment to preserving Kurdistan Region's cultural heritage through active restoration projects.
During her visit, Ambassador Romanowski particularly focused on the progress of restoration work at the citadel's historic hammam (traditional bathhouse), which is being rehabilitated through U.S. funding as part of the broader #USIraq360Partnership initiative.
"We are committed to supporting the KRG in their efforts to preserve the IKR's rich history and culture and share it with the world," Ambassador Romanowski stated during her visit.
Enjoyed my visit to the Erbil Citadel to view progress made on our restoration projects, including the ancient hammam. We are committed to supporting the KRG in their efforts to preserve the IKR’s rich history and culture and share it with the world. #USIraq360Partnership
— Ambassador Alina L. Romanowski (@USAmbIraq) November 24, 2024
The Erbil Citadel, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2014, stands as one of the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world, with a history spanning over 6,000 years. The fortress-like structure sits atop a 32-meter-high artificial mound in the heart of Erbil, the capital city of the Kurdistan Region.
The United States, through various cultural preservation programs, has been actively involved in supporting restoration efforts across Iraq and the Kurdistan Region. These initiatives aim to protect and preserve historical sites while strengthening cultural ties between the United States and the region.
The ongoing restoration project at the citadel represents a significant component of the broader U.S.-Iraq strategic partnership, which encompasses cultural, economic, and security cooperation between the two nations.
The Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) has prioritized the preservation of cultural heritage sites as part of its tourism development strategy, with the Erbil Citadel serving as a cornerstone of these efforts.