Hīt is a small city in the Iraqi Desert.

Understand

The history of Hīt dates back to at least 2,900 BC, when the Sumerians discovered bitumen wells in the region, which they used in building the Ziggurats. Around 2,200 BC the city of Tutul was established during the rule of the Akkadian Empire. Later on the city was named Isiopolis. It remained a fairly minor city until the Islamic conquest in 636 AD. Due to its geology, there are several hot springs nearby the city.

Get in

Hit is along Highway 12, running between Ramadi and the border with Syria.

As of 2021, rehabilitation of the railway from Baghdad is underway. It is however unclear when passenger trains will return.

• 1 Hit railway station. (updated Sep 2021)

See

• 1 Hīt Citadel (قلعة هيت). One of the most important citadels in Iraq, with some parts dating back to the Sumerian period. Most of the citadel is however in ruins. (updated Sep 2021)
• 2 Al-Farooq Mosque (جامع الفاروق) (Within the Citadel). Historic mosque, built in 639 AD. (updated Sep 2021)
• 3 Waterwheels at Norias Park. Some peculiar engineering constructions on the Euphrates River. 

Eat

• 1 Lutfi Restaurant (below citadel). Kebabs.