Shar Garden Park and the fountain in the heart of Erbil

Below the impressive, raised circular mound of the ancient citadel (Qala’t) is the city centre of Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Featured in the heart of the city is Shar Garden Park, often referred to a Shar Square. The square is actually a large rectangular. Looking at the citadel, Kirkuk Road is to the left, with the Russian bank and a maze of stalls in the Qaysari Bazaar. To the right is a mosque and another bazaar. Constructed two to three years ago, the park is part of the city’s beautification plan.

Right in the middle of Shar Garden Park is a large fountain and many benches for people to sit and enjoy the sites of the fountain, citadel, clock tower, lively bazaars, tea shops, or the many people who congregate there. The park is active and energetic with shoppers, yet simultaneously the fountain creates a soothing atmosphere. Raised boardwalks and benches, with a smaller water display, and patches of lawn, add interesting features to the park.

MARTINA NICOLLSis an international aid and development consultant, and the authorof:- Similar But Different in the Animal Kingdom(2017), The Shortness of Life: A Mongolian Lament (2015), Liberia’s Deadest Ends (2012), Bardot’s Comet (2011), Kashmir on a Knife-Edge (2010) and The Sudan Curse (2009).

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