Kirkuk Preserves Traditional Stone Mills as Cultural Heritage

KIRKUK, Iraq — Stone mills continue to stand in Kirkuk's old bazaars as local heritage items, drawing interest from visitors and residents alike. The traditional grinding stones, once a staple in Iraqi households before electricity became widespread, served for centuries to process grain, coffee and spices. Abu Murad, who operates a traditional crafts shop in Kirkuk, said the stone mills were a basic tool in daily family life during the pre-electric era. He noted that traditional restaurants and public guesthouses also show interest in these items. Dr. Abdulkarim Khalifa, a folk culture and local history researcher, said the stone mills are part of grinding techniques that date back thousands of years in Mesopotamia. Archaeological excavations across Iraq have uncovered numerous examples of ancient stone mills from various periods. Today, the mills are preserved primarily for their historical and cultural value rather than practical household use.