Natural and Anthropogenic Impacts on Khanzad-Banaman Castle, a Geological-Cultural Heritage in Erbil-KRG/ Iraq

Abstract

This study highlights the relevant categories of heritage and proposes strategies for prioritizing the protection of geological and cultural heritage, focusing on the importance of geoconservation and geotourism as tools for preserving geoheritage in a Castle, which are under increasing threat from climate change and anthropogenic impacts. It also assesses unique geomorphological landforms and cultural heritage sites affected by climate change and anthropogenic impacts. The case study focuses on Khanzad–Banaman Castle, a geological-cultural heritage site built in the 16th century and located atop a geological ridge of aesthetic value. The ridge consists of sandstone and claystone belonging to the Miocene Injana Formation.

 Engineering, geological, and anthropogenic surveys were conducted, revealing that although the area is situated on the southwestern limb of the Permam Anticline within Iraq’s High Folded Zone, the rock slopes are affected by landslides, including rockfalls, toppling, wedge failure, and creep. These instabilities result primarily from discontinuities within the rock beds. Anthropogenic activities have further increased slope instability. The construction of new roads, tunnels, and access to the castle gate at the hilltop has intensified surface exposure to erosion, thereby increasing the instability and vulnerability of this historical and cultural heritage site. This study concludes that human influence on the Earth’s surface is a significant factor that increases over time, particularly with the expansion of land use for construction and urban development, especially in areas containing cultural heritage. The study also highlights the main factors affecting cultural heritage and examines how protection methods can be implemented to mitigate these impacts. This study highlights Keywords:  Geoheritage, Cultural heritage, Natural Impact, Anthropogenic Impact, Geosite conservation,  Rock Slope Stability, Khanzad-Banaman Castle, Iraq.