Erbil’s Historic Choli Minaret Set for Renovation to Safeguard Heritage, Boost Tourism

ERBIL (Kurdistan24) – In a significant initiative underscoring a dedicated effort to safeguard the rich tapestry of the region's historical and cultural legacy, authorities in Erbil have announced that the iconic Choli Minaret, a towering symbol of the capital's ancient past, is scheduled to soon undergo a comprehensive renovation. This crucial project aims not only to protect and preserve one of the city's most cherished landmarks for future generations but also to enhance its appeal as a central pillar of Erbil's burgeoning tourism sector, reinforcing the city's identity as a cradle of civilization.

The Choli Minaret, known historically as the 'Muzzafferiya' Minaret, stands as a profound testament to a pivotal era in Erbil's history. Its origins trace back to the reign of Sultan Muzaffar al-Din Kokburi (or Gökböri), who ruled from 1190 to 1232 AD, a period of significant architectural and cultural development. Located to the southwest of the world-renowned Erbil Citadel, another jewel of the city's heritage, the minaret is believed to be the last remaining structure of a grand mosque constructed during that time.

Standing at an impressive height of approximately 37 meters, its elegant, cylindrical form has graced the city's skyline for centuries. Its more common name, 'Choli', meaning desolate or empty in Kurdish, was acquired over time, a poignant reference to a long period when the monument stood isolated in a largely undeveloped landscape, a silent sentinel watching over the city's expansion.

In an exclusive statement to Kurdistan24 correspondent Renas Ali, Nadir Babakr, the Director General of Antiquities and Heritage of Erbil, provided detailed insights into the forthcoming restoration.

He confirmed that a highly specialized team of experts from the Czech Republic has already completed a thorough and detailed study of the minaret. This assessment meticulously identified the structure's deficiencies and outlined the necessary interventions to ensure its long-term preservation. This same Czech team brings a valuable history with the monument, having previously conducted renovation work on the minaret 17 years ago, providing a crucial layer of continuity and deep familiarity with its specific structural needs.

The planned renovation is set to be a multi-faceted endeavor, addressing both the structural integrity and the aesthetic presentation of the historic site.

According to the details shared by the Directorate, the scope of the work will include replacing the fence that currently encloses the minaret, a measure designed to enhance security and improve the visual harmony of the site. Furthermore, modern surveillance cameras will be installed around the landmark to provide continuous monitoring and protection against potential vandalism or damage. A critical component of the restoration will involve carefully filling the cracks that have appeared on the structure over time, a vital step to prevent further weather-related erosion and ensure its stability. Beyond these specific tasks, the project will encompass several other changes aimed at holistically improving the condition and presentation of the monument.

Addressing potential concerns about the minaret's structural soundness, the Director of Antiquities of Erbil offered a firm reassurance. He emphasized that there is absolutely no immediate danger of the minaret collapsing. He further clarified that the noticeable lean of the structure, a characteristic that adds to its unique identity, has remained stable and unchanged since the previous renovation was completed nearly two decades ago. This expert confirmation provides a crucial baseline of confidence as the new phase of preservation work begins.

The restoration of the Choli Minaret is widely seen as an important strategic step toward attracting greater attention from both local and international tourists. Visitors to Erbil frequently remark on the city's captivating blend of modernity and ancient history, and landmarks such as the Citadel and the Choli Minaret are consistently cited as essential elements of its profound beauty and cultural allure. Echoing this sentiment, tourists have repeatedly called for the diligent preservation of these invaluable sites, expressing a collective desire to ensure that the tangible evidence of the city's deep-rooted civilization is not lost to the passage of time. The upcoming project is a direct and robust response to these calls.

In line with a broader vision for the site's future, a number of supplementary plans are being considered to create a more integrated and protected heritage zone. One significant suggestion has been to reduce or reroute vehicle traffic in the immediate vicinity of the minaret. This measure would serve to further protect the ancient structure from the vibrations and pollution associated with heavy traffic, contributing significantly to its long-term preservation.

Moreover, there is a comprehensive plan to implement a dedicated tourism project in the area surrounding the minaret. This initiative aims to transform the grounds into a more attractive and accessible destination for visitors, potentially including landscaped gardens, informational plaques, and other amenities that would enrich the tourist experience and make it a focal point for cultural exploration in the city.

The Choli Minaret remains an architectural marvel, distinguished by a feature that makes it exceptionally rare among similar structures. It was ingeniously designed with two separate doors and two distinct internal staircases for ascent. This unique architectural element is one of its most defining characteristics, offering a glimpse into the sophisticated design and construction techniques of the era in which it was built. As the renovation project moves forward, it carries with it the collective hope of preserving not just bricks and mortar, but the enduring spirit and historical narrative of Erbil itself.