Abdolrazzaq Protected Area

The Abdolrazzaq Protected Area in Saqqez is a habitat of about 43,950 hectares in the east of Saqqez County. It is the third protected area in Kurdistan Province. The area plays an important role in supporting local and national policies and global biodiversity. It is also a valuable site for scientific research, the protection of pristine areas, the maintenance of environmental services, education, tourism and recreation, the protection of special natural and cultural features, and the sustainable use of biological areas.

The Abdolrazzaq Protected Area is home to many animals. Eighty species of birds and 17 species of mammals live in this habitat, and they include rare and scarce species. Among these rare species are the stork, the golden eagle, the Eurasian eagle-owl (known locally as "morgh-e haq"), the wild ram, the kite, the Imperial eagle (homa), the partridge, the jackal and the mouflon ewe ("mish-morgh"). Another feature of Abdolrazzaq is its variety of plant species: more than 350 plant species have been identified in the area so far. They include savory, milkvetch (gown), kama, wild almond, iris, carnation and zol. Thanks to its favourable climate and its lush forests and pastures, the area has become a habitat for many plants.

One of the things that adds to the importance of this protected area is its attractive sights, such as Zivieh Castle. Zivieh Castle is one of the best-known historical monuments of Saqqez and stands high up on a spectacular hill. Many years after it was built, this ancient castle still has sturdy remains standing. Besides the ancient Zivieh Castle, which doubles the significance of the Abdolrazzaq Protected Area, the cultural monument of the ancient Karaftu Cave is another of the area's attractions and adds greatly to its importance. The ancient Karaftu Cave is a man-made cave dating back to the Median period, and it holds many mysteries.

To reach this area, you first need to get to Saqqez. Once you arrive in Saqqez, you can get to the site by public transport. If you are travelling in your own car, take the Saqqez–Divandarreh road to reach the area. Visiting this area is subject to certain conditions, and you must follow them. You cannot camp in the area and may only walk around and explore, and you should be careful not to damage its ecosystem.