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Qara Serai Castle: A Glimpse into Mosul's Past

Explore Qara Serai Castle in Mosul: A historical landmark with stunning architecture and a rich cultural heritage on the banks of the Tigris River.

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Qara Serai, also known as the Black Palace, stands as a historical landmark in Mosul, bearing witness to the city's rich and complex past. Constructed in the 13th century by Badr al-Din Lu'lu', a Mamluk emir, the castle offers a glimpse into the region's medieval Islamic architecture and cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Qara Serai castle (The Black Palace)

  • 943G+37G, Mosul, The Right Coast, Nineveh Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking on uneven surfaces.
  • Hire a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the castle.
  • Visit during the cooler months (October to April) for a more comfortable experience.
  • Check with local authorities or tour operators for the latest security updates before your visit.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    Qara Serai is located in the Right Coast area of Mosul. From most locations in this part of the city, the castle is accessible by foot. Use the Al-Hadbaa Tower as a reference point. The castle is located at coordinates 36.3526962 latitude and 43.1257043 longitude. There is no fee for entering the area.

  • Public Transport

    From a central bus station in Al-Jazeera, take a bus heading to Mosul. Ensure that the bus stops in the Right Coast area. The journey may cost around 2,000 IQD. From there, you can take a taxi or walk to the castle. If you choose to take a taxi, confirm with the driver that your destination is Qara Serai castle (The Black Palace) at coordinates 36.3526962 latitude and 43.1257043 longitude.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Mosul. Provide the driver with the coordinates 36.3526962 latitude and 43.1257043 longitude or the address 943G+37G, Mosul. The fare for a taxi ride within Mosul can vary, but expect to pay around 5,000 to 10,000 IQD depending on the distance and traffic conditions.

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Discover more about Qara Serai castle (The Black Palace)

Qara Serai, meaning "The Black Palace," is a historical palace complex located on the west bank of the Tigris River in Mosul. Built in the 13th century by Badr al-Din Lu'lu', a Mamluk emir of the Zengid dynasty, the castle was once a significant power center in Northern Iraq. Lu'lu', who rose to power in Mosul in the early 13th century, left a lasting impact on the city, constructing major structures such as the Sinjar Gate, the shrines of Imam Yahya and Awn al-Din, and the Qara Serai palace complex. Legend has it that the palace was originally known as Ak Saray, meaning "The White Palace". However, during a Mongol assault, the palace was burned, turning its exterior from white to black, thus giving it the name Qara Serai. The castle's strategic location along the Tigris River added to its allure, providing a serene backdrop. Visitors can appreciate the blend of medieval Islamic architecture with local influences that characterize the structure, offering a unique insight into the cultural tapestry of Mosul. Despite the damage it suffered during the Iran-Iraq War and later conflicts, Qara Serai did not experience further destruction during the occupation by ISIS from 2014 to 2017. Today, Qara Serai is a focus of heritage conservation efforts supported by NGOs in partnership with Iraqi government agencies. Visitors can explore the castle's expansive courtyards and imagine the grand rulers and significant events that once unfolded within its walls. Guided tours are available, allowing tourists to delve deeper into the stories of the castle and the historical events that shaped its existence.

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