Halamata Cave

Quick Facts

• Type: Cave and rock relief site
• Location: Near Duhok, Iraq
• Notable for: Neo-Assyrian Maltai reliefs
• Region: Kurdistan Region of Iraq

Overview

Halamata Cave is best known for the nearby Maltai reliefs, a series of Neo-Assyrian carvings cut into the rock above the valley. The site combines natural cave formations with ancient monumental art.

These reliefs form part of a wider landscape of Assyrian-era rock art in northern Iraq, highlighting the region’s role in imperial history and mountain travel routes.

Landscape and Culture

The cave overlooks a green valley that has long served as a corridor between Duhok and surrounding highlands. The reliefs link the natural landscape to ancient royal symbolism and pilgrimage routes.

Notes

The Maltai reliefs are among the most prominent Assyrian rock carvings in the Kurdistan Region.