Not much is left of Salahaddin's Fortress (also known as Deween Castle) but the view of the valleys sprawled out before it and the scenic drive through a more rural Kurdistan is worth the tiny detour.
The ruins are known as Salahddin's Fortress because of a possible link between the founders of the castle – princes of the Zarzariya Tribe – and the famous 12th century conqueror Salahaddin. The castle itself is thought to date back to the Soran Emirate.
The location is about 15km north of the city of Salahaddin, and is not that easy to get to, though most local drivers will know the way. Call it Deween Castle when asking.
Warning: the last 5km to the fortress is a gravel road lined by minefields, identified by piles of rocks that have been painted red. We recommend you never venture off hard surfaces.
