Nouri Fonas, a Libyan traveler, praised Erbil’s significant development and modernization during his first visit to the city. He connected with the local culture and visited notable historical sites in Iraq, expressing particular admiration for the Zakho mountains. His journey to Erbil included extensive travel through several countries, highlighting the region’s rich cultural tapestry.
Libyan globetrotter Nouri Fonas expressed admiration for the extraordinary transformation of Erbil, the capital of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, during his recent visit. He emphasized the impressive development, infrastructure, and organization of the city, noting, “If I had visited Erbil 20 years ago, I would not have seen the level of progress and modernization that exists today.”
This trip marked Fonas’ inaugural journey to Iraq, where he swiftly integrated into Iraqi society, which he found to be welcoming and hospitable. His travel endeavors included inspecting historical landmarks in Baghdad, such as the Al-Mustansiriya School and the ancient ruins of Babil, along with visiting the revered cities of Najaf and Karbala prior to exploring the historic Erbil Citadel.
Fonas, who has previously trekked through notable mountain ranges such as the Himalayas and Mount Fuji, was particularly taken by the Zakho mountains in the Kurdistan Region. He remarked, “I have seen many of the world’s great mountain ranges, but nothing compares to the beauty of Zakho’s mountains.” His expedition into Iraq began at the Ibrahim Khalil border crossing following an extensive voyage through the Caucasus, Cyprus, Greece, and Turkiye.
In conclusion, Nouri Fonas’s visit to Erbil highlights the remarkable advancements made in the city over the past two decades. His experience exemplifies the welcoming nature of Iraqi society and the breathtaking beauty of the Kurdistan Region’s landscapes. Fonas’ journey underscores the blend of historical significance and modern development that characterizes this part of Iraq, inviting further exploration and appreciation.
Original Source: shafaq.com
