Analysis of vernacular dwellings in Iraq: A comparative study of Erbil citadel and old Akre

This research aims to analyze and compare vernacular architecture of Erbil Citadel and Old Akre, two historic settlements located in Iraq’s Mediterranean climatic zone, with goal of identifying their embedded sustainable design principles and highlighting their cultural and environmental significance. Employing a qualitative research approach, the study draws upon detailed field observations, and a comprehensive review of academic literature to examine key architectural and structural elements. These include street configuration, dwelling attachment, open space organization, material selection, structural systems, roof construction, façade treatments, and design of doors and windows. Erbil Citadel, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site, is characterized by compact urban planning, inward-oriented courtyard houses, narrow and meandering streets, and use of traditional materials such as mud brick and timber. These features contribute to thermal comfort, privacy, and efficient land use. In contrast, Old Akre presents an organically evolved terraced layout, adapted to steep mountainous terrain. It utilizes local stone and lime in construction and fosters a strong sense of community through shared rooftops and communal terraces that also serve functional purposes. The comparative analysis reveals how both sites demonstrate context-sensitive responses to climatic, topographical, and social factors, making efficient use of locally available resources while maintaining cultural continuity. These findingsunderscore importance of vernacular architecture as a viable framework for contemporary sustainable design. By extracting lessons from traditional practices, the study contributes to discourse on climate-responsive and culturally integrated architecture, advocating for a more inclusive approach to sustainable urban development that draws on historical and regional wisdom.