population: 0.126 million

extension: 1.33 square kilometers

Museums

A great museum to visit near Al-Hamdaniya is the Mosul Museum located in the nearby city of Mosul. This museum houses a collection of artifacts and objects from the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, and Sumerians. Additionally, you may also want to consider visiting the Erbil Civilization Museum or the Sulaymaniyah Museum, both located within driving distance of Al-Hamdaniya and home to fascinating exhibits on the history and culture of Iraq and the wider region.

Food

Some of the most recommended, popular, and typical dishes to eat in Al-Hamdaniya (Iraq) according to local people are:

1. Masgouf: a grilled fish dish made with freshwater fish, typically carp or catfish, marinated with spices and served with rice.

2. Dolma: vegetables such as peppers, tomatoes, eggplants, and vine leaves stuffed with a mixture of rice, meat, herbs, and spices.

3. Kebab: skewered and grilled meat, often lamb or chicken, seasoned with spices and served with bread and salad.

4. Tashreeb: a soup made with pieces of bread, lamb or chicken, chickpeas, and tomato sauce that is boiled together and then garnished with herbs and spices.

5. Qeema: a minced meat dish often cooked with onions, tomatoes, and spices and served with rice or bread.

6. Biryani: a rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and spices, usually served with yogurt or chutney on top.

7. Shawarma: a sandwich made with thinly sliced meat (usually lamb or chicken), vegetables, and sauces wrapped in pita bread.

8. Falafel: deep-fried balls of ground chickpeas mixed with herbs and spices, served in a pita bread with tahini sauce and vegetables.

These dishes reflect the diverse culinary traditions of Iraq and are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

Activities

One fun activity that locals in Al-Hamdaniya enjoy is to visit the historic Al-Sharafiya Mosque, which dates back to the 11th century and is considered one of the oldest mosques in Iraq. Another popular local pastime is shopping at the city's vibrant markets and bazaars, such as the Al-Hamdaniya Market or the nearby Mosul Market, where you can find a wide variety of traditional Iraqi goods, including spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Additionally, many locals enjoy spending time outdoors and picnicking in the scenic areas surrounding Al-Hamdaniya, such as the nearby Lake Al-Habbaniyah or the picturesque hills of the Nineveh Plains.