The name "Ankawa" is a derivative of Amko or Amka, which is the name of the gate of the Erbil citadel that faces in the direction of Ankawa. As Christianity surfaced as a dom
The name "Ankawa" is a derivative of Amko or Amka, which is the name of the gate of the Erbil citadel that faces in the direction of Ankawa. As Christianity surfaced as a dominant religion in the area, residents in Ankawa embraced the beliefs and practices. As a result, many historical Christan monuments exist in the town. Mar Gewargis and Mar Yousif are two beautifully built Christian churches with deep historical roots. Mar Gewargis is the oldest but was recently renovated in 1996.[i]
Today, a variety of displaced refugees from Shaqlawa, Koysenjaq, Armota, Karemles, Mangesh, Dyana, Hawdyan, Elqush, and other places who were being persecuted for their Christian faith have come to live in Ankawa.[ii]
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[i] "Ankawa." 2013-01-23. Ishtar Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 2014-07-12.
[ii] "Ankawa." 2013-01-23. Ishtar Broadcasting Corporation. Retrieved 2014-07-12.