Ancient Assur: Location of the Assyrian Capital

Where Is Ancient Assur?

The ruins of Assur (also spelled Ashur), the ancient capital of the Neo-Assyrian Empire, are located near the modern town of Tal Afar in Ninawa Governorate, northern Iraq.

Situated on the western bank of the Tigris River, Assur was a major religious and political center for centuries. The archaeological site has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2003, though it has faced threats from conflict and proposed dam projects.