Al-Nouri Mosque: A Symbol of Mosul's Resilience
Experience the rebuilt Al-Nouri Mosque in Mosul, a symbol of resilience and a testament to the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
The Great Mosque of al-Nouri, also known as the Nouri Mosque, holds a significant place in Mosul's history and identity. Constructed in 1172-1173 by Nur ad-Din Zangi, it quickly became the city's principal mosque. Over the centuries, the mosque underwent numerous renovations, with additions like a hospice, school, and shrine dedicated to Nur ad-Din Zangi in the 19th century. The leaning minaret, al-Hadba, was the mosque's most distinctive feature, characterized by its unique silhouette and intricate geometric brickwork. It stood 45 meters (148 ft) high and became a symbol of Mosul and Iraq. In 2014, ISIS seized control of the mosque, and its leader, Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, declared a new caliphate from its prayer hall. During the Battle of Mosul in 2017, ISIS destroyed the mosque and its minaret. This act was seen as a deliberate attempt to erase a symbol of Mosul's cultural heritage. In 2018, UNESCO, in partnership with the United Arab Emirates and Iraq, launched the "Revive the Spirit of Mosul" initiative to reconstruct the mosque and other cultural landmarks. The reconstruction project aimed to restore the mosque to its former glory, preserve its historical significance, and promote social cohesion in the post-conflict city. The rebuilt mosque was completed in 2024, with efforts made to incorporate salvaged structural elements and preserve archaeological discoveries made during the reconstruction process.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a quieter atmosphere and better lighting for photography.
- Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting the mosque, in accordance with local customs.
- Engage with local guides to deepen your understanding of the mosque's history and significance.
A brief summary to Al-Nouri Mosque
- 84PC+27R, Mosul, Hayy An Nabijarjis, Nineveh Governorate, IQ
Getting There
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Walking
Al-Nouri Mosque is located in the heart of the Old City of Mosul. From most points within the Old City, the mosque is easily accessible by foot. As you walk, look for the distinctive architecture of the rebuilt minaret to guide you. Note that some areas within the Old City may still be under reconstruction, so be mindful of any restricted areas.
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Public Transport
While Mosul doesn't have a formal public transportation system, mini-buses and shared taxis are available. These can be found at the Mosul bus station and can take you to the Old City. From there, it's a short walk to the mosque. A one-way ticket on public transport costs approximately 525 IQD.
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Taxi
Taxis are a readily available option for reaching Al-Nouri Mosque. A taxi from Mosul city center to the Old City will cost approximately 2,900 IQD as a starting price, plus 2,700 IQD per kilometer. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
