Cultural Heritage Protection

This project aims to monitor site damage to the archaeological heritage of Garmian, increase the capacity of local heritage professionals, and engage local communities with their heritage.

Archaeological Heritage in Garmian

Hundreds of archaeological sites, spanning 10,000 years, can be found in the Garmian region. Mounds have grown over time from people living and rebuilding in the same place for generations. Each mound holds buried structures, offering valuable insights into human history. Qala Sirwana is the largest mounded site in the region, topped by a 19th century mudbrick castle, and is the region's most famous attraction.

Damage to the sites is evident; military activities have severely damaged many prominent mounds and many sites are subject to looting. Documenting and monitoring site damage will protect the internationally important cultural heritage of Iraq and lead to better protection in the future

An Integrated Archaeological Practice

Building on the Sirwan Regional Project, this project aims to document and monitor archaeological site damage in the region; build capacity among local archaeologists and heritage professionals through skills workshops and field training; and create a sustainable framework for heritage in the region.

Creating a geo-database of archaeological sites in the region, including detailed visual evidence, will inform recommendations for the protection of the sites. Through a series of engagement activities with teachers and local communities, including the creation of dedicated spaces in two museums, people will have an improved understanding of archaeological cultural heritage and its value.

Project Details


Location: Kurdistan Region, Iraq, Middle East, Asia Organiser(s): University of Glasgow Project partner(s): Directorate of Antiquities, Suleymaniyah Governorate, Dartmouth College, and The Institute for Heritage and Sustainable Development (INHERIT) part of York Archaeological Trust for Research and Excavation Ltd Funder(s): British Council Cultural Protection Fund in partnership with DCMS Funding received: £301,178 Commencement Date: 01/2017 Project Status: Active
Project owner? Update this project



Related Projects

P1980337

Varendra Research Museum

This project, led by Durham University in collaboration with the Varendra Research Museum and supported by the British Council’s Cultural Protection Fund, focuses on preservin…

Explore project
Kharmang c Laavjerd

Community Based Conservation of Silk Route Heritage

Digital documentation and repairs of historic buildings in Gilgit-Baltistan, supported by a residency for Shu craftspeople.

Explore project
Lahiri Bandar artefact scatter c Maritim EA Research

Digital Heritage Trails Project (DHTP)

Documentation and community engagement around endangered maritime archaeological sites in Sindh’s Indus Delta.

Explore project