Each knot in a Kurdish carpet tells a silent story, tying generations of tradition to the land beneath our feet.

“When discussing Kurdish carpets, we transcend the geographical boundaries of modern nations,” says Kawan Kareem, a Kurdish carpet expert.

With over 500 distinct types, Kurdish carpets reflect the diverse histories and identities of their regions and clans.

Two carpet factories once operated in Erbil, employing hundreds and producing textiles now largely forgotten.

Mislabeling and misidentification have allowed Kurdish carpets to be claimed and sold under other cultural names.

Natural dyes like walnut shells and the Shlera flower give Kurdish carpets their distinct, region-specific colors.

Village depopulation and mechanization have contributed to the dramatic decline of Kurdish carpet weaving.

The saranaz carpet, known for its rectangular design, is one of Erbil’s most recognizable traditional styles.

Erbil carpets feature over 500 unique motifs, ranging from trees and animals to birds like ducks and chickens.