Erbil is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, dating back to 6,000 years B.C. It has been inhabited over the millennia, by the Persians, Greeks, Romans, Mongols and Ottoman Turks.
Today, the Kurds form the largest ethnic group in the city - estimates put the region’s population between 1.5 and 2 millions of which approximately 93% are Kurdish.
At the center of the city rests the Erbil Citadel, an ancient structure dates back to 2,000 B.C. The oval-shaped structure has developed as generations on generations have built houses and homes upon one another. There homes were built out of mud clay bricks that were prone to disintegration in the sun and rain.
Erbil has been the center of Kurdish culture in Iraqi Kurdistan, as well as Kurdish politics. The Kurdistan Regional Government is based in the city, and the affairs of the region governed here.
As Jamais Vu Atelier, we developed a Grand Bazaar Concept Project for the center of the city. By inspiring from the culture visual culture; bazaars, jewelry, ceramics and carpets, we created a strong representation of its heritage. Also, in our research phase, we questioned modern approaches to the similar concepts which helped us to create a unique harmony.