Architecture Department Scientific Visit to Erbil Citadel Houses

On Tuesday, November 5th, a group of fourth-year students from the Department of Architectural Engineering, accompanied by Lecturer Dr. Nagham Ismael Yahya, visited the historic houses of Erbil Citadel. This field trip focused on exploring the traditional environmental techniques employed in these structures, which are considered early examples of sustainable architecture.

During the visit, the students, guided by their course instructor and Mr. Araz, the Head of the Tourism Department at Erbil Citadel, were introduced to various architectural features within the residential units. These included thick mudbrick walls, shaded courtyards, and natural ventilation systems. These elements demonstrate how our ancestors adapted to the local climate using eco-friendly methods, which resonate with contemporary principles of green architecture.

The vision of the Architecture Department is reflected in this visit, emphasizing the importance of learning from heritage architecture and integrating sustainable design practices. By studying these traditional techniques, students are inspired to adopt environmentally conscious approaches in their work, aligning with the department’s commitment to promoting sustainable and resource-efficient architecture.

This visit not only enhances the students’ understanding of architectural history but also encourages them to think critically about how these age-old practices can inform their future designs.

Overall, it is part of the university’s broader commitment to fostering sustainable practices through experiential learning, motivating students to incorporate these essential principles into their academic and professional endeavors