Dūr-Katlimmu, Archaeological site in Deir ez-Zor Governorate, Syria.
Dūr-Katlimmu sits on a mound on the eastern bank of the Khabur River and contains remains of stone structures, fortification walls, and large administrative buildings from different periods. The site shows residential areas, storage facilities, and palace-like structures that reveal how the ancient city was organized.
The site began as a settlement under Mitanni rule and later became an Assyrian provincial capital in the 13th century BC under King Shalmaneser I. The city served as a key center in the Assyrian realm and was rebuilt and expanded multiple times over subsequent centuries.
Excavations uncovered thousands of cuneiform and Aramaic texts that reveal how people managed the city and conducted business during the Assyrian period. These documents show the administrative relationships and daily practices that connected this settlement to a larger regional network.
The site is located in a remote region of northern Syria and is best visited during periods of regional stability. Visitors should check local conditions beforehand and consider hiring a local guide to navigate the scattered ruins and understand the ongoing archaeological work.
One of the largest administrative buildings found at the site covered over 3,700 square meters and contained around 50 rooms spread across multiple levels. This massive structure offers a rare glimpse into how ancient Assyrian centers were organized and how space was used for governance.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
