ProjectThe Mountain Fortresses of Rabana-Merquly in Iraqi Kurdistan

Perimeter fortifications at Rabana-Merquly can be viewed as an extension of the surrounding highland landscape. Walls were constructed to block intruders where gaps in the western escarpment of Mt. Piramagrun at the valley base and along its upper ridges would otherwise allow access. The result was a near continuous barrier c. 4000 m in length, with the difference in height between the lowest and highest fortifications being c. 720 m (1180–1900 meters above sea level).

Inside Rabana the focus of occupation was in the north-east, where the wadi running through the center of the valley enters from a narrow gorge extending high up into the mountain. After heavy rain and snowmelt this forms an ephemeral waterfall, the base of which is canalised with monumental stone architecture. Close by, a small (fire?) altar within a sub-rectangular niche is carved into the escarpment. The overall impression is of a sanctuary complex, with the prominence of water suggesting a cultic link to the goddess Anahita.

Current research complements the results of previous excavations at Merquly in 2009 by the Slemani Antiquities Directorate that explored a citadel built on high ground (Saber et al. 2014). This overlooks several buildings, including seven of standardized rectangular design, each with five rooms of approximately equal size. Based upon parallels with Roman/Sasanian forts these structures most likely functioned as barracks. The defensive function of the fortress probably extended to a garrison at Merquly, well placed to counter threats emanating from the surrounding highlands.