Hazarmerd

## Overview Hazarmerd is a natural spring emerging from the Qarah mountain chain in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, flowing directly beneath the renowned Hazarmerd Cave (also spelled Hazar Merd). The cave and its surrounding landscape sit at an elevation in the Sulaymaniyah Governorate and have long been a site of archaeological and natural interest. The name "Hazar Merd" translates roughly to "a thousand men" in Kurdish, a reference steeped in local lore about the cave's vast interior chambers. The spring is fed by the limestone karst geology of the Qarah mountains, which naturally filters water through layers of rock before it surfaces at the base of the cliff face. Visitors have reported that the water tastes clean and pleasant, and it has historically been used as a drinking water source by local communities and travelers. The spring is said to flow year-round, maintaining a steady output across all seasons — a testament to the deep aquifer system within the mountain. The Hazarmerd Cave itself is of significant archaeological importance. Excavations in the mid-20th century uncovered Neanderthal-era artifacts and Mousterian stone tools, placing human activity at this site tens of thousands of years ago. It is likely that this perennial spring was one of the reasons ancient peoples were drawn to the area, making Hazarmerd not just a natural wonder but a place of deep human heritage. ## Directions 1. From the city of **Sulaymaniyah**, head southeast toward the Qarah mountain range. 2. Follow the road leading to the village area near Hazarmerd Cave. The GPS coordinates **35.542334, 45.338608** will guide you to the spring's location at the base of the mountain. 3. The spring emerges directly below the Hazarmerd Cave entrance along the cliff face. Look for the cave opening above and the water source at the base of the rock formation. *Note: Road conditions in the area may vary seasonally. It is advisable to use a vehicle suited for rural mountain roads.* ## What to Expect The spring flows from the limestone base of the Qarah mountain directly beneath the dramatic opening of Hazarmerd Cave. The flow rate has been described as modest but consistent — approximately two inches per hour — and it runs reliably throughout the year, even during the dry summer months common in this part of Iraq. The surrounding landscape is rugged and scenic, with the towering cliff face and cave entrance providing a striking backdrop. The area is relatively remote, so visitors should come prepared with supplies. The terrain around the spring may be uneven and rocky. For those with an interest in archaeology or history, a visit to the Hazarmerd Cave above the spring is highly recommended. The cave's spacious chambers and historical significance add a compelling dimension to the trip. The combination of a perennial mountain spring and a Paleolithic cave site makes Hazarmerd a uniquely rewarding destination in the Kurdistan Region.