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Al Noree Al Kaber Mosque: A Symbol of Mosul's Resilience

Discover the Al Noree Al Kaber Mosque in Mosul, a resilient symbol of history and hope rising from the ruins of war.

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Once a prominent historical and religious site in Mosul, the Al Noree Al Kaber Mosque, also known as the Great Mosque of al-Nuri, is undergoing restoration after being severely damaged in 2017. The mosque is known for its iconic leaning minaret, Al-Hadba, which stood for over 850 years. The mosque is a symbol of Mosul's identity and is being rebuilt using traditional techniques and materials salvaged from the rubble.

A brief summary to Al Noree Al Kaber Mosque

  • 84VG+3PF, Al Shaziani St, Mosul, Hayy An Nabijarjis, Nineveh Governorate, IQ

Local tips

  • Be respectful of the religious significance of the mosque.
  • Check for any travel advisories or safety updates before visiting Mosul.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and culture of the area.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Al Noree Al Kaber Mosque is located on Al Shaziani St in Mosul. If you are in the Old City area, walking is a viable option. Be aware of your surroundings and any ongoing construction.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Mosul. A short taxi ride to Al Noree Al Kaber Mosque from a central location in Mosul, such as a hotel, will cost approximately $10 USD. Be sure to agree on the fare before starting your journey. Ride-sharing apps like Careem are also increasingly popular.

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Discover more about Al Noree Al Kaber Mosque

The Al Noree Al Kaber Mosque, historically known as Mosul's Great Mosque, held immense significance for the city's urban and religious life. Constructed in 1172-1173 by Nur ad-Din Zangi, it stood for centuries, its leaning minaret, Al-Hadba, becoming an iconic symbol of Mosul. The minaret's tilt, evident by the time the renowned traveler Ibn Battuta visited, earned it the nickname "the hunchback". In June 2014, the mosque gained notoriety when ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared the formation of a new caliphate during a Friday prayer there. However, in 2017, as Iraqi forces closed in to expel the group, ISIS militants destroyed the mosque and its famous minaret. This act was seen as an official acknowledgement of defeat. In the wake of the destruction, UNESCO launched an international competition to select a design for the mosque's reconstruction. The winning design, by an Egyptian team, was finalized in May 2022 in collaboration with the University of Mosul and local experts. The reconstruction project, named "Revive the Spirit of Mosul," is funded by UNESCO, the United Arab Emirates, and other nations. The reconstruction involves preserving the essential features and main volumes of the structure, while also incorporating some improvements. During the preparatory work, archaeologists discovered four rooms dating back to the 12th century, believed to have been used for ablutions. These rooms will be preserved and displayed as a museum within the new mosque. The mosque has reopened for worship, and an official opening is expected during 2025.

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