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Mudhaffar Minaret
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monument
The Mudhaffar Minaret, also known as the Choli Minaret, stands approximately one kilometer southwest of the Erbil Citadel and represents a crucial architectural remnant from the 12th-century era of the city. The 36-meter-tall baked brick tower was built between 1190 and 1232 under the rule of Muzaffar al-Din Abu Said al-Kawkaburi. The lower octagonal base measures 15 meters in height and features relief brick walls adorned with Quranic verses in Kufic calligraphy. The upper cylindrical section displays a diamond-shaped brick pattern characteristic of Seljuk architecture of that period. The minaret was originally part of a mosque that has entirely disappeared over the centuries. In 2006, Iraqi archaeological authorities performed comprehensive structural reinforcements on the building to protect it from weathering and ensure its stability.
- Location: Iraq
- Top sights: Shanidar Gallery · Hot air balloon · Minaret Gallery
- 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
Visiting
The Mudhaffar Minaret is located in central Erbil and can be viewed from the outside. Climbing the minaret is not normally possible, but the surrounding area is walkable.
Typical hours
The minaret is accessible from the outside at all times as it stands in a public square. The best photo opportunities come in the late afternoon when the sun highlights the brickwork pattern.
Photography
Photography from the street or the square is unrestricted. For unusual angles, take a stroll through the adjacent alleyways.
Time needed
A short visit suffices for a photo stop and viewing the minaret - about 15 to 20 minutes. Those who want to explore Erbil's old town should allow half a day.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the nearby Erbil Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Grand Bazaar (Qaysariya) is also just a few minutes' walk away.
Getting there
The minaret is in central Erbil and easily reached on foot if you are in the old city. Taxis and buses stop near the square.
Insider tip
Visit the minaret as part of a city tour to learn more about its history. In the evening, the lighting is especially nice for atmospheric shots.
Geography
Facts
- The total height of the minaret reaches 36 meters, supported by a 15-meter octagonal base.
- The structure was constructed between 1190 and 1232 for a former mosque of the city.
- A spiral staircase consisting of 110 steps leads to the top inside the tower.
- The structure was reinforced as part of an extensive preservation program in 2006.
- The Kufic inscriptions found on the brick cladding date back over 800 years.
- Due to the inclination of the tower, builders stabilized the lower section with iron fittings.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Mudhaffar Minaret (6)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the Mudhaffar Minaret?
It is a historic 12th-century brick minaret and a prominent landmark of Erbil.
Why does it stand alone?
The mosque it was originally attached to has been destroyed over the centuries, leaving only the minaret.
Where in Erbil is it located?
It is located in Minaret Park, just west of the Erbil Citadel.
Can visitors climb the minaret?
No, climbing the minaret is not permitted in order to preserve its historical structure.
What is special about its decoration?
It features intricate geometric brick patterns typical of the Atabeg architectural period.
Mudhaffar Minaret: where is it located?
Mudhaffar Minaret is located in Iraq.
Mudhaffar Minaret: what is there to see?
Highlights include Shanidar Gallery, Hot air balloon, Minaret Gallery.
Mudhaffar Minaret: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, May, Oct.
Mudhaffar Minaret: why is it worth visiting?
The Mudhaffar Minaret, also known as the Choli Minaret, stands approximately one kilometer southwest of the Erbil Citadel and represents a crucial architectural remnant from the 12th-century era of the city.
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History & landmarks
More places
Shanidar Park
An urban park in Erbil, named after the famous cave, known for its art galleries and green architecture.
Minaret Park
A historic park in Erbil surrounding the famous Mudhaffar Minaret and offering a peaceful atmosphere.
Erbil Citadel
A fortified settlement on a tell, one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world.
Sami Abdulrahman Park
The largest park in Erbil, built on the site of a former military base, today a green oasis of peace.
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A famous cave in the Kurdistan Region where significant remains of Neanderthals have been discovered.