She ordered it built to serve her as place of residence and as defense of Erbil, her capital.

Xanzad Castle is 40 meters high and consists of two floors.

Amanj Adil, a local historian, considers it one of the most important archaeological and historical sites of the region.

It sits atop a hill a mere 22 kilometers (14 miles) away from the capital.

[1] Reza Shamal, a local from Erbil said; "This castle is proof that Kurdish people once had their own country (...)" Khanzad Bakir, another local from Erbil said; "I've visited the castle so many times because it gives me strength and pride.