Amadiyah (or Amedi) is an ancient town in the Duhok Governorate of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, which is built on a mesa in the broader Great Zab river valley. The city has a rich history dating back thousands of years, and its mountainous location has contributed to its strategic and defensive importance throughout history. The ancient town dates back to 3,000 BCE to the ancient Assyrians. The city of Amadiyah is still home to 5,000 inhabitants. Amadiyah’s elevation of approximately 1,400 meters above sea level has made it a prominent landmark in the region.

Amadiyah ancient town dates back to 3,000 BCE to the ancient Assyrians

Many of the houses in Amadiyah were built using elements of the town?s original stonework and are arranged in a ring shape in the form of a citadel. There are many ancient sites inside the town, including an ancient mosque that is still in use by the townspeople, and the town?s Old Gate that was used for centuries. According to tradition, Amadiyah is also the birthplace of the Three Wise Men, the Biblical Magi that made a pilgrimage to Bethlehem to bring presents to Jesus Christ on his birth.
Many of the houses in Amadiyah were built using elements of the town?s original stonework and are arranged in a ring shape in the form of a citadel

Picture taken from Badinan ancient gate, down the city. Image Credit: @silviaaacarrozzo

The ancient mosque of the city is still in use by the townspeople

Minaret of the main mosque in...