Tourist Attractions in Mosul, Iraq
Umayyad Mosque
The construction of this city’s oldest mosque began in the year 640 AD. It is situated in close proximity to the historic church that honours Saint Paul and the forty martyrs. Utba bin Farqad Al-Salami was the one responsible for its construction. It was during this time that Al-Salami had successfully taken control of Mosul city. The majority of the building’s original construction has been destroyed or removed entirely. The brick minaret that stands here at this location is 171 feet tall and may still be seen today. This minaret has swayed throughout the course of the year, much like the Tower of Pisa. Because of the way it tilts, the locals name it Al-Hadba, which literally means “the Humped.”
The Great Mosque
This mosque was built in 1172 AD and is situated in close proximity to the Umayyad Mosque. Due to the fact that it was built by Nuriddin Zanki, it is sometimes referred to as the Nuriddin Mosque. In its early days, this mosque was home to a marble fountain; however, it has since been removed. Inscriptions in Kufic may be seen on the mehrab of the mosque. The interiors have been given a lot of attention to detail, and the results are really spectacular.
Qara Serai
This building, often known as the “Black Palace,” was constructed in the 13th century. The structure that Sultan Badruddin Lu’lu’ built no longer stands; all that is left are its crumbling remains. During the reign of Uthmaneets, the palace was used as the location of the ruler’s court. During Nader Shah’s assault, this palace was also used as the command and control centre by those involved.
The Church of St. Peter
This Chaldean church in the city of Mosul was built in the 13th century, making it the city’s oldest. In addition to its other name, Shamoun Al-Safa, it was constructed in the 13th century. The structure is situated about 16 feet below the level of the street. The church is named after Saint Simon the Apostle (St. Peter). In the complex that houses the church there is a cemetery that has the tombstones of Muslim businesspeople, among them Shammas Mazagi. It was he who was responsible for establishing a patriarchal seminary in the area around this church. In addition, nuns belonging to a different religious order resided in the church for a period of time. Although there is not much left to view, owing to its considerable archaeological value, it is nevertheless a popular tourist destination in the city.
St. Thomas Church
This is one of the oldest churches in Mosul, and its origins are said to date back to before the year 770 AD. The name of the church comes from St. Thomas the Apostle, who is also known as Mar Toma. There are no records available that specify the precise date when it was established or constructed. This church and a visit by Al-Mahdi, Caliph of the Abbasid Empire, to Mosul in the eighth century are mentioned in the one and only reference that is now accessible. The church is still in operation and has three altars, all of which give the impression of being quite majestic.
St. George’s Monastery
This ancient monastery is located to the north of Mosul and is also known as Mar Gurguis. It is thought to have been constructed in the late 17th century and got its name from Saint George. Approximately 20 feet below street level is where the original church building is located. In 1931, a new church was built on top of the older one that had been there before. This location has a door frame made of marble that dates back to the 13th century. On its surface is a lovely Estrangelo inscription that has been etched. During the springtime, there are a significant number of visitors that make the journey to see this monastery.
Monastery of St. Matte
About 19 kilometres to the east of Mosul is where you’ll find the well-known Syrian Orthodox Monastery of St. Matthew. On top of Mount Maqloub is where you’ll find it. This monastery was established by a monk who is also known as St. Matthew or Mar Matte. After escaping the Zuknin Monastery in the year 362 AD, he made his way to this part of the world. The archaeological importance of the St. Matte Monastery cannot be overstated. A library containing a significant number of Syrian texts may be found at this location.
