Overview
Sulemania (Slemani) is Iraqi Kurdistan's cultural capital, founded in 1784 by Kurdish prince Ibrahim Pasha Baban. The city attracted Sorani-speaking Kurdish linguists and writers who developed Sorani literature, now commemorated with statues throughout parks and squares.
Culture · Day Trips · History · Museums · Nightlife
Before you go
Culture
Sulemania is more open-minded and tolerant than rest of Kurdistan. Women appear more independent here than in typical Arab contexts.
Money
Local currency is Iraqi Dinar (IQD). The Zara supermarket stocks some Western products. A shared taxi to Erbil costs around 15,000 IQD.
Transport
Sulaymaniyah International Airport serves domestic routes and limited international destinations (Doha, Dubai, Istanbul, Tehran). Shared taxis to Erbil depart from Garage of Baghdad terminal.
Weather
Extremes: January averages -0.6°C to 11.2°C with rain; July averages 22.1°C to 41.3°C with virtually no rain. Spring and autumn are most comfortable.