Faida Archaeological Park: A 4,700-year-old treasure in Nohadra (Duhok), Kurdistan Region of Iraq

NOHADRA, Kurdistan Region of Iraq — The Faida Archaeological Park, located in the Simel district of Nohadra (Duhok) Province in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), is a remarkable testament to the ingenuity of the Syriac-Assyrian civilization. Spanning over 100 hectares, the site dates back to 2700 BCE and features 13 intricately carved reliefs, a 10-kilometer irrigation channel, and evidence of advanced hydraulic engineering.

Archaeologist Kovan Ihsan notes that while the park belongs to the Neo-Assyrian period, identifying its exact royal patron is challenging due to inscriptions from various eras. Initial construction may have begun under King Tiglath-Pileser III (745–727 BCE), with significant expansions likely carried out under King Sennacherib (705–681 BCE), renowned for his pioneering water systems.

Since 2003, the site has benefited from enhanced archaeological efforts, attracting international teams and resulting in the documentation of over 2,700 archaeological sites across Nohadra. Restoration and excavation projects at Faida have further uncovered its historical significance.

The Kurdistan Regional Government is prioritizing the preservation and rehabilitation of the site, recognizing its potential to promote cultural tourism and celebrate Mesopotamia’s (Beth Nahrin) rich heritage. Faida serves as both a cultural treasure and a testament to the region’s enduring legacy.