Kurdistan Region, Autonomous region in northern Iraq
The Kurdistan Region is an autonomous territory in northern Iraq between Syria, Turkey and Iran, with Erbil as its capital. The area includes several major cities and numerous smaller towns connected by roads that wind through hills and valleys.
The area gained formal autonomy in 1970 after years of conflict with the central government. Following 2003, it expanded its territory and built its own administrative structures that continue today.
Visitors notice Kurdish traditions in music, festivals and everyday life, with Kurdish, Arabic and Assyrian languages spoken in markets and streets. The local society reflects how different communities live together, each maintaining their own customs while sharing public spaces like cafés and town squares.
International airports in Erbil and Sulaymaniyah connect the area to destinations worldwide, while border crossings to neighboring countries are accessible to travelers. Roads run through mountainous landscape, with journeys between cities taking several hours.
The area manages its oil resources independently and exports through its own pipeline to Turkey. This economic independence sets it apart from other parts of the country and shapes its political role.
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