Plizio Visual Lab

Minaret Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Minaret Park in Erbil surrounds the historic Mudhaffar Minaret, whose construction is dated between 1190 and 1232 during the reign of Sultan Muzaffar ad-Din Gökböri. The 36-meter-tall structure features an octagonal base. The surrounding 15-hectare landscaped park was established in 2007 to better integrate the historical monument into urban leisure activities. The park's layout combines traditional geometric Islamic garden architecture with modern design elements. Two intersecting main axes flanked by water channels lead directly to the minaret. Along the central promenades, bronze busts of 12 prominent Kurdish poets and scholars are displayed. An amphitheater-style facility built in the western section of the park can seat 400 people and is regularly used as a venue for readings and small-scale musical performances.

Location: Iraq
Top sights: Krekaran · Kilik Mishik (archaeology hill) · stationary
Nearby: Akre (47 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	7	9	14	19	25	32	35	35	30	24	14	9
Rain mm	42	37	50	42	16	2	1	1	2	18	31	41

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

The park is conveniently located within the city of Erbil, highly accessible for walkers. Most main roads provide very clear directions to this landmark.

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Best season

Spring or autumn months are convenient when temperatures in the city are pleasantly mild. Summer afternoons get intensely hot, so early morning visits are best.

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Terrain & paths

The expansive grounds feature flat, well-maintained paved pathways that are easy to navigate. It gives a gentle landscape with nicely shaded seating areas.

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What to bring

Comfortable casual walking shoes are completely sufficient for exploring the entire park. Bringing a hat, sunglasses, and a water bottle is highly recommended.

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Parking

Dedicated parking can typically be found in nearby urban streets surrounding the park. During busy holidays, you might need to park slightly further away.

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Safety

The park is widely considered very safe for families, reflecting normal urban space standards. Just keep a reasonable eye on your belongings while relaxing.

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Time needed

Photographing the historic minaret and relaxing in the peaceful atmosphere typically requires one hour. Having a casual picnic can extend this to three hours.

Geography

Coordinates

36.18250, 43.99300

Facts

The tower giving the park its name was built during the period between 1190 and 1232.
The cylindrical brick structure reaches a construction height of 36 meters.
The 15-hectare landscaped area surrounding the monument was completed in 2007.
Bronze busts of 12 distinguished Kurdish intellectuals are exhibited on the site.
An open amphitheater located in the western zone can accommodate 400 spectators.
A cable car provides a direct connection to the nearby Shanidar Park.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Shanidar Park<1 km · NExplore →

Erbil2 km · NExplore →

Majidi Land4 km · NEExplore →

Mount Korek39 km · NEExplore →

Mount Safin43 km · NEExplore →

Akre47 km · EExplore →

Shanidar Cave56 km · NEExplore →

Gali Ali Beg Canyon58 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Minaret Park (9)

Krekaran 🏺 historical

A monument in the Minaret Park area dedicated to the local workforce and their history.

Kilik Mishik (archaeology hill)🏺 historical

An ancient settlement mound (tell) preserving significant archaeological traces of Erbil's early history.

stationary ⛪ religious

A small, functional place of worship near Minaret Park for the daily devotions of local residents.

Haji Sadiq Nanakali ⛪ religious

A local mosque in the Minaret Park district known for its lively community during Friday prayers.

Shahidain mosque ⛪ religious

This mosque located in a residential area serves as a quiet spot for prayer away from the main streets.

BAZARY SPI)🎭 culture

A traditional local market known as the 'White Market,' where textiles and household goods are sold.

Areza tourism Community📍 landmark

A tourism hub in the Minaret Park district offering leisure activities and insights into local culture.

Othman Ibn Afan Mosque 📍 landmark

Named after Othman Ibn Afan, this mosque is a key religious landmark in the neighborhood.

Hazrati Aisha Mosque 📍 landmark

A mosque located in the Minaret Park area, bearing the name Hazrati Aisha and serving as a community hub.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the main attraction in Minarett-Park?

The historical Mudhafaria Minaret, also known as the leaning minaret.

How old is the minaret in the park?

It dates back to the 12th century, from the time of the Atabeg dynasty.

Are there statues in the park?

Yes, the park houses statues of famous Kurdish poets and scholars.

Is the park wheelchair accessible?

Most pathways are flat and easily accessible for wheelchairs.

Can you eat inside the park?

Yes, there are several cafes and kiosks offering snacks and drinks.

Minaret Park: where is it located?

Minaret Park is located in Iraq.

Minaret Park: what is there to see?

Highlights include Krekaran, Kilik Mishik (archaeology hill), stationary.

Minaret Park: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.

Minaret Park: why is it worth visiting?

Minaret Park in Erbil surrounds the historic Mudhaffar Minaret, whose construction is dated between 1190 and 1232 during the reign of Sultan Muzaffar ad-Din Gökböri.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →