On top of this mound lies one of the oldest town in the world.
The houses are contiguous and form a solid wall very similar to fortified citadels of medieval times.
Originally, there was only one ramp the southern slope that led to a huge and arched gateway.
Before the introduction of modern building techniques, most houses on the citadel were built around a courtyard.
During the 1920s there were about 500 houses inside the citadel.
According to a 1995 census, some 1,600 inhabitants were living in 247 houses in the citadel.
In 2007, the citadel was cleared of residents so construction work could take place for a restoration project.
