Seven ancient Parthian tombs unearthed in Iraq’s Kurdistan region amid survey of 6,500 sites

Seven ancient Parthian tombs were discovered in the Khazna area of Koy Sanjaq, Iraq's Kurdistan region, between late April and late June. One tomb contained a clay coffin with a small, headless figurine of a pregnant woman, alongside bracelets, earrings, and cosmetic items, according to Muhammad Lashkri, director of antiquities and heritage affairs. These artifacts are now stored at the Koya directorate. Since 2009, approximately 6,500 archaeological sites have been recorded in over half of the Kurdistan region, with 45% still awaiting identification due to political issues and disputed territories. Lashkri noted that many foreign archaeological missions, typically 25-35, were unable to return in 2026 due to the US-Iran war, impacting efforts to document sites and develop tourism revenue.