Why you should visit Hatra in Iraq

Hatra

When people think of Iraq, they often think of Baghdad, Babylon, or the mountains of Kurdistan. But in the middle of the northern Iraqi desert, there is another special place: Hatra. This ancient city, once a trading center along the Silk Road, is a powerful reminder of the rich and diverse history of Mesopotamia. For travellers who really want to discover Iraq, a visit to Hatra is a must.

A bit of history

Hatra was once a busy trading city and reached its peak in the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. The city was famous for its strong walls, temples, and unique mix of architecture: Greek, Roman, and Eastern styles come together in a fascinating way. Hatra was even able to resist the Romans during several attacks, thanks to its strong defenses.

In 1985, Hatra was added to the UNESCO World Heritage List. Sadly, the site was badly damaged during the ISIS occupation, but restoration work is now in progress.

What makes Hatra special?

Hatra is special not only because of its history, but also because of the feeling it gives of being transported to another era. When you walk between the ancient ruins, from giant columns to beautifully decorated temple fronts, you feel like you’ve travelled back in time. Highlights include:

• The Great Temple, with its huge arches
• The double city walls, once very hard to break through
• The mix of cultures and religions, from Assyrian to Greek influences

Because Hatra is less famous than places like Babylon, you often have the ruins almost to yourself. This makes the visit even more special.

Practical tips for your visit

• How to get there: Most travellers visit Hatra from Mosul or Erbil. We really recommend going with a guide (and not just because we are a travel company!). You’ll pass many checkpoints, and without a guide or language skills, this can be difficult. A guide also makes your visit safer and more enriching, sharing the stories that bring this place to life.
• Best time to visit: You can visit Iraq most of the year, except in summer (June to early September), when temperatures are often over 40°C. Outside of these months is the perfect time to visit Iraq.
• What to bring: Bring enough water, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), and comfortable shoes. There is a toilet, but no other services on site.
• Clothing advice: Respect local customs. Wear modest clothing (long pants and a long sleeved shirt), especially when passing through villages.

Restoration and what Hatra means to Iraq today

After the destruction by ISIS between 2015 and 2017, it seemed like Hatra was lost. Photos of broken temples and fallen columns shocked the world and showed how fragile cultural heritage can be during war. But Hatra did not give up.

Since the area was freed, archaeologists, local experts, and international groups have started restoration work. This work has happened step by step, with care and respect for the original architecture. The goal is not only to rebuild, but also to protect Hatra for the future, so new generations can learn about this amazing place.

For many Iraqis, Hatra is more than an old ruin. It is a symbol of pride, identity, and strength. It demonstrates that even after war and destruction, the roots of their culture are still strong.

Book a tour

A visit to Hatra is not just a trip through history, it’s also a sign of respect for a people who rise again and again through hard times. Here, among the old stones, you can feel the echoes of the past and the power of recovery. If you are looking for more than just a nice photo, Hatra offers a deep and unforgettable experience.

Want to discover Hatra yourself? Book a tour with us and experience Iraq in a unique way!