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Iraq

Rabana-Merquly

Middle Parthian fortified settlements and rock reliefs

Time Periods

Paleolithic

Paleolithic

Mesolithic

Mesolithic

Neolithic

Neolithic

Chalcolithic

Chalcolithic

Bronze Age

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Iron Age

Classical Period

Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Post-Classical Period

Early Modern Period

Early Modern Period

Industrial Period

Industrial Period

Contemporary Period

Contemporary Period

Location

About

The Rabana-Merquly archaeological site in the Sulaymaniyah Governorate, Kurdistan Region, Iraq, is a remarkable cluster of historical significance dating back to the Middle Parthian period, around 50-150 CE. The site consists primarily of two separate fortified settlements, Rabana and Merquly, alongside at least two notable rock reliefs. These features suggest the site's role as a strategic defensive location and possibly a significant urban center during its time. The settlements' fortifications point to their importance in regional defense and governance. The rock reliefs, believed to depict a king of Adiabene, further enhance the site's historical value, potentially indicating its identification with the ancient city of Natounia, known from coinage but not previously located. This site contributes significantly to understanding the Parthian Empire's urban and defensive strategies, especially in the context of the wider Mesopotamian region.

Gallery

Explore photographs of ancient structures, artifacts, and archaeological excavations at Rabana-Merquly

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Archaeological Features

Explore the unique architectural and cultural elements found at this historical site

Defensive Structures

Fortresses

Artistic and Decorative Features

Reliefs

Domestic and Habitation Structures

TownsCities

Historical Timeline

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Plan Your Visit

Details

Country
Iraq
Source
Wikipedia