Mar Mattai Monastery: A Sanctuary in the Mountains

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Discover Mar Mattai Monastery: An ancient Syriac Orthodox sanctuary perched atop Mount Alfaf, offering history, spirituality, and breathtaking views.

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Mar Mattai Monastery

Perched dramatically on Mount Alfaf, also known as Mount Maqlub, Mar Mattai Monastery is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in existence. Founded in 363 AD by Mar Mattai, who fled Roman persecution, this Syriac Orthodox monastery offers visitors a glimpse into centuries of Christian history and breathtaking panoramic views.

A brief summary to Mar Mattai Monastery

FCRR+7X8, قريه مير كي, Nineveh Governorate, IQ

Monday 12 am-12 am
Tuesday 12 am-12 am
Wednesday 12 am-12 am
Thursday 12 am-12 am
Friday 12 am-12 am
Saturday 12 am-12 am
Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

Dress modestly to show respect for this religious site.
Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter, more reflective experience.
Take a guided tour to fully appreciate the monastery's rich history and unique architecture.

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Getting There

Taxi

From Mosul or nearby towns like Bakhdida (Qaraqosh), the most convenient way to reach Mar Mattai Monastery is by taxi. A taxi from Bakhdida to the monastery typically costs around 10,000-15,000 IQD, but confirm the fare before starting your journey. The drive offers scenic views as you ascend Mount Alfaf.

Discover more about Mar Mattai Monastery

Mar Mattai Monastery, also known as Dayro d-Mor Mattai, clings to the heights of Mount Alfaf in northern Iraq, approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Mosul. Founded in 363 AD by Mar Mattai, a hermit who sought refuge from Roman persecution under Emperor Julian the Apostate, the monastery has been a beacon of Christian faith for over sixteen centuries.Legend says that Mar Mattai's healing powers led to the conversion of Prince Behnam and his sister Sarah, children of the Assyrian King Sennacherib. Initially enraged, the king is said to have eventually repented and built the monastery at Mar Mattai's request. The monastery's strategic location, 820 meters above sea level, offers stunning views of the Nineveh plains.Throughout its history, Mar Mattai has served as a refuge and a center of Syriac Orthodox Christian culture. It once housed thousands of monks and boasted a rich library of Syriac manuscripts. Although the monastery has faced numerous attacks and challenges, including a devastating fire in 480 AD and threats from ISIS more recently, it has been consistently rebuilt and renovated. Today, the Syriac Orthodox Church maintains the site, and the Kurdistan Regional Government provides security.Visitors can explore the monastery's ancient churches, chapels, and cave dwellings, experiencing the serene atmosphere that has drawn pilgrims and seekers for centuries. The monastery not only stands as a testament to enduring faith but also offers a unique perspective on the rich history and cultural heritage of Christianity in Mesopotamia.