Al-Hadbaa Tower: A Symbol of Mosul's Resilience

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A historical landmark in Mosul, the Al-Hadbaa Tower, with its distinctive lean, symbolizes the city's rich heritage and resilience after conflict.

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Al-Hadbaa Tower

The Al-Hadbaa Tower, also known as the leaning minaret, is a historical landmark in Mosul, Iraq. Originally built in the 12th century as part of the Great Mosque of al-Nuri, it became famous for its distinctive tilt and was a symbol of the city for centuries until its destruction in 2017. Recently rebuilt by UNESCO, it stands as a testament to Mosul's enduring spirit.

A brief summary to Al-Hadbaa Tower

84VG+9H8, Al Shaziani St, Mosul, Hayy An Nabijarjis, Nineveh Governorate, IQ

Local tips

Explore the Old City of Mosul, where the Al-Hadbaa Tower is located, to witness the ongoing reconstruction efforts and discover other historical sites.
Visit the Al-Nouri Mosque complex, where the Al-Hadbaa Tower stands, to appreciate the intricate Islamic architecture and the site's historical significance.
Engage with local artisans and craftsmen involved in the restoration projects to learn about traditional building techniques and the preservation of Mosul's cultural heritage.

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Getting There

Walking

From the heart of the Old City, the Al-Hadbaa Tower is easily accessible on foot. Navigate towards the Al-Nouri Mosque, where the minaret is located. As you walk, you'll notice the ongoing reconstruction efforts in the area. The tower is a prominent feature, making it easy to orient yourself. No costs involved.
Public Transport

If arriving from other parts of Mosul, take a local bus or shared taxi to the Old City. From the nearest drop-off point, follow the main streets towards the Al-Nouri Mosque. The Al-Hadbaa Tower will be visible as you approach. A one-way bus or shared taxi fare within Mosul typically costs around 525 IQD.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Mosul. Request a ride to the Al-Nouri Mosque in the Old City. The driver should be familiar with the location of Al-Hadbaa Tower. A short taxi ride within Mosul may cost approximately 2,900 IQD as a starting price, plus 2,700 IQD per kilometer.

Discover more about Al-Hadbaa Tower

The Al-Hadbaa Tower, meaning "the hunchback" in Arabic, is an iconic minaret in Mosul, Iraq, celebrated for its unique inclination. Constructed in 1172 by the Seljuk ruler Nur al-Din as part of the Al-Nouri Mosque complex, the 45-meter-tall structure quickly became a prominent symbol of the city. Its ornamental brickwork and distinctive lean, caused by environmental factors over centuries, made it instantly recognizable.Over time, the minaret's tilt became more pronounced, earning it the nickname "Al-Hadbaa". By the 14th century, the leaning was significant enough to be noted by travelers like Ibn Battuta. The minaret even appeared on the Iraqi 10,000 dinar banknote, further solidifying its status as a national symbol. For centuries, a muezzin would climb the tower's spiral staircase five times a day to call Muslims to prayer.In 2017, during the battle to liberate Mosul from ISIS, the minaret and mosque were destroyed by explosives. This act was seen as an attempt to erase Mosul's cultural identity. However, the destruction sparked a commitment to rebuild the landmark, and UNESCO launched a project to reconstruct the minaret using traditional materials and techniques. The reconstruction was completed in 2024, restoring the Al-Hadbaa minaret to its former glory, with its distinctive lean intact. Today, the Al-Hadbaa Tower stands as a symbol of Mosul's resilience, its rich history, and the hope for a brighter future.