Kirkuk, Iraq

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Kirkuk, Iraq

Region: Kirkuk is located in the Kirkuk Governorate

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Geographic Coordinates: 35.466700, 44.316700

Climate: Dry and hot summers, mild winters with occasional rainfall.

Population: 975000

Language: Arabic

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Kirkuk is a historical city situated in northern Iraq, Serving as the capital of the Kirkuk Governorate. The city has been home to various ethnic groups over time, And it presently houses around one million inhabitants. The location of Kirkuk is of great significance due to its abundant oil reserves. It has been a significant center for oil production and exportation throughout history, Making it a target for different groups including invading armies and rebel forces.

The diverse cultural heritage of Kirkuk is reflected in its architecture with many historic buildings dating back to different eras such as mosques from the Abbasid period and churches built during Ottoman rule. The Citadel of Kirkuk, Which was constructed over 2, 000 years ago served as a military fortification during various periods. Kirkuk’s natural attractions include Qishla Park – an expansive park located at the heart of downtown – offering visitors beautiful views over Lake Dokan while they enjoy picnics or take leisurely walks through its gardens.

The people residing in Kirkuk come from different backgrounds with their unique customs and traditions contributing to making this vibrant community what it is today. Despite being relatively small compared to other cities in Iraq like Baghdad or Basra, Kirkuk offers plenty for visitors to see and do. Its bustling bazaars offer everything from spices to textiles; there are museums showcasing ancient artifacts alongside modern art galleries exhibiting works by local artists. if you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path destination with rich culture and history coupled with natural beauty then look no further than Kirkuk!

It may not be as well-known as other cities in Iraq but it is definitely worth exploring.

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1. Citadel of Kirkuk: An ancient fortress dating back to the 13th century.
2. Kirkuk Museum: A museum that houses a collection of artifacts from different periods of history.
3. Qishla Tower: A historic tower built during Ottoman rule.
4. Al Rashid Park: A public park with gardens, playgrounds, and picnic areas.
5. Imam Yahya Mosque: A beautiful mosque located in the heart of the city.
6. Al-Adala Square: The main square in Kirkuk surrounded by shops and restaurants.
7. Koy Sanjaq Park: A scenic park located on top of a hill with stunning views over the city.
8. Azadi Sports Complex: A sports complex featuring a stadium, swimming pool, and other facilities for sports enthusiasts to enjoy their time at Kirkuk.
9. Taza Khurmatu Waterfall – Located about 20 km southwest from central Kirkuk is this beautiful waterfall that attracts many tourists every year who love nature and adventure activities like hiking or trekking.
10. Shalalat Gardens – These lush green gardens are situated at a distance of around 22 km northeast from central Kirkuk which offer visitors an escape into nature’s lap away from hustle-bustle life in cities while enjoying picnics or relaxing under shades provided by trees here.

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1. Oil production and refining
2. Agriculture
3. Textile manufacturing
4. Construction materials production
5. Retail trade
6. Government offices and institutions

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1. Kirkuk was an important city during the Assyrian Empire from 2500-605 BCE and was known as Arrapha.
2. During the Islamic Golden Age, Kirkuk became a center of learning and culture, attracting scholars from all over the Muslim world.
3. The city played a significant role in the Ottoman Empire’s expansion into Iraq in the 16th century.
4. In 1927, oil was discovered in Kirkuk which led to its rapid development as an industrial center.
5. During World War II, Kirkuk served as a key supply base for Allied forces fighting against Nazi Germany in North Africa and Italy.
6. In 1958, a military coup led by General Abd al-Karim Qasim overthrew Iraq’s monarchy and established a republic with Baghdad as its capital.
7. The Kurdish population of Kirkuk has long sought independence or autonomy from Iraqi rule and has been involved in various conflicts with government forces over the years.
8. Saddam Hussein’s regime forcibly expelled thousands of Kurds from their homes in Kirkuk during his reign (1979-2003).
9. After Saddam Hussein’s fall from power following the US-led invasion of Iraq in 2003, there were tensions between Kurds who wanted to incorporate Kirkuk into their autonomous region and Arab residents who opposed this move.
10. Najmaldin Karim is one notable person associated with Kirkuk who served as governor of Kirkuk province from 2011 to 2017 before being removed from office by Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi due to his support for Kurdish independence efforts.

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1. Kirkuk Citadel is a historical fortress dating back to the 12th century, located in the heart of Kirkuk.
2. The Museum of Kirkuk showcases the history and culture of Kirkuk, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary art.
3. Qal’at Najm Park is a beautiful park with a castle and a lake, offering scenic views and recreational activities.
4. The Martyrs Monument is dedicated to the memory of those who lost their lives during the Iran-Iraq War, located in central Kirkuk.
5. Al-Mawardi Mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Iraq, built during the Abbasid period and featuring intricate architectural details.
6. Hawija Dam is an impressive dam located on the Tigris River that provides irrigation for agriculture and electricity generation for nearby areas.
7. Choli Minaret is a 40-meter high minaret dating back to the Seljuk period, known for its unique architecture and design.
8. The Kurdish Textile Museum showcases traditional Kurdish textiles and embroidery techniques.
9. The Kawa Statue commemorates Kawa, a legendary figure from Kurdish mythology who led a rebellion against an oppressive ruler.
10. Mount Korek Tourist Resort is located just outside Kirkuk; this resort offers stunning views of surrounding mountains as well as skiing opportunities during winter months.

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1. Kirkuk FC: It is one of the oldest football clubs in Iraq, founded in 1952. The team has won several championships at the regional level but has not been able to make a mark at the national level.
2. Naft Al-Junoob Kirkuk: This football club was founded in 2008 and quickly became one of the top teams in Iraq’s second division league.
3. Al-Talaba SC: Although not based exclusively out of Kirkuk, this Iraqi football club plays some home games at the Franso Hariri Stadium located here.
4. Kirkuk basketball team: The city also has a basketball team that competes at both regional and national levels.
5. Kurdish wrestling: Wrestling is another popular sport with deep roots in Kurdish culture that continues to be practiced today by young athletes across various clubs within the city limits.
6. These are just some examples as there may be many other local amateur or semi-professional sporting groups active within this region too!

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1. Kirkuk Cultural Festival celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of Kirkuk and features traditional music, dance, and food.
2. Kurdish New Year (Newroz) marks the beginning of spring and is celebrated with bonfires, dancing, and feasting.
3. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan and is celebrated with prayer, gift-giving, and feasting.
4. Ashura commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Hussein and is observed by Shia Muslims with mourning processions and self-flagellation.
5. Arbaeen marks the 40th day after Ashura and is observed by Shia Muslims with a pilgrimage to Karbala.
6. Kirkuk International Film Festival showcases local talent as well as international films from around the world.
7. National Day (Iraqi Independence Day) commemorates Iraq’s independence from British rule in 1932 on October 3rd.
8. Martyrs’ Day honors those who died fighting for Iraq’s independence or during subsequent wars against foreign aggression or internal conflict on June 14th.
9. Baghdad International Book Fair attracts visitors from all over Iraq including many from Kirkuk who come to buy books on a wide range of topics including literature, history, politics, religion etc., although it is not held in Kirkuk specifically.

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• Masgouf Al-Mansour: A restaurant famous for its grilled fish dish called masgouf.
• Suleymaniyah Restaurant: An Iraqi restaurant known for its kebab dishes and traditional Iraqi bread.
• Al-Turath Restaurant: A local eatery serving traditional Kurdish dishes such as dolma, kubba, and pacha.
• Shams Al-Huda Restaurant: A popular spot for breakfast serving a variety of Middle Eastern dishes like falafel, hummus, and shakshuka.
• Qalat Saladin Restaurant: Located inside the historic Citadel of Kirkuk, this restaurant offers traditional Iraqi cuisine with a view of the city’s ancient walls.
• Nishtiman Cafe & Restaurant: A cozy cafe serving homemade Kurdish pastries like baklava and qataif along with tea and coffee.
• Kawa Cafe & Grill House: This restaurant serves grilled meats like lamb chops, chicken skewers along with salads and mezzes.
• Baban Bakery & Pastry Shop: Known for its freshly baked breads and sweets including baklava, kunafa, maamoul cookies etc., this bakery is a must-visit in Kirkuk!

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Parks and Recreation

1. Kirkuk Bowling Center: A bowling alley with multiple lanes for family fun.
2. Kirkuk Mall: A shopping center with a variety of stores and restaurants to explore.
3. Kirkuk Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of the region through exhibits and artifacts.
4. Aqua Park: An outdoor water park with slides, pools, and other water attractions for all ages to enjoy.
5. Kirkuk Planetarium: An educational facility that offers astronomy shows and presentations on space exploration.
6. City Park Mall: A modern mall with shops, restaurants, cinemas, and an indoor playground for kids.

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Leave Footprints In The Sand.

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