population: 1.5 million

extension: 48.61 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Erbil and interested in visiting museums, a great place to start would be the Kurdish Textile Museum. This museum showcases traditional Kurdish textiles and clothing, as well as other artifacts related to Kurdish culture. Other museums in Erbil that may interest you include the Erbil Civilization Museum, which houses artifacts from the ancient city of Erbil, and the Kurdish Heritage Museum, which displays items related to the history and culture of the Kurdish people.

If you're looking for similar places to visit nearby, you may want to check out the Slemani Museum or the Amna Suraka Museum, both located in Sulaymaniyah, about 150 kilometers southeast of Erbil. These museums also focus on Kurdish culture and history.

Food

There are several popular and typical dishes to try in Erbil, Iraq, according to local people:

1. Dolma: This dish consists of stuffed vegetables, such as grape leaves or bell peppers, filled with rice, meat, and spices.

2. Kubba: These are deep-fried balls made from a mixture of bulgur wheat, ground meat (usually beef or lamb), and spices.

3. Masgouf: This is a grilled fish dish that's typically made with freshwater carp or other fish native to the Tigris River.

4. Tepsi Baytinijan: This is a baked eggplant dish that's layered with ground meat, tomato sauce, and spices.

5. Pacha: This is a hearty soup made from sheep's head and feet, which are simmered for hours with herbs and spices.

6. Shawarma: This is a popular street food in Erbil, consisting of marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) that's cooked on a rotating spit and served in a pita bread wrap with vegetables and sauces.

7. Biryani: This is a spicy rice dish that's typically made with chicken or lamb and flavored with a blend of spices, including saffron, cumin, and cardamom.

8. Baklava: This is a sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup, often served as a dessert or snack.

Activities

Sure, here are some fun activities that locals in Erbil enjoy:

1. Visiting the Citadel: The Citadel is a historic fortress located in the heart of Erbil and is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Locals and tourists alike enjoy exploring the winding alleys and ancient architecture.

2. Shopping at Bazaar: One of the best places to experience local culture in Erbil is at the bazaars, such as the Shanidar Park Bazaar or the Qaysari Bazaar. You can find everything from spices and clothing to handmade crafts and souvenirs.

3. Picnicking at Sami Abdulrahman Park: This large park is a popular destination for locals who come to relax, play sports, and have picnics with family and friends. There are also hiking trails and playgrounds for children.

4. Dining out: Erbil has many great restaurants offering a variety of cuisines. Some local favorites include Kurdish kebab, falafel, and pacha (a traditional dish made with sheep's head and stomach).

5. Attending cultural events: Erbil hosts many cultural events throughout the year, including music festivals, art exhibitions, and theater performances. Check out the schedule of events during your visit and join in on the fun!