Great Mosque of al-Nuri, Mosul
Mosque Historic Mosul mosque famed for its leaning minaret.
12th-century mosque in Mosul noted for its leaning al-Hadba minaret, destroyed in 2017 during conflict; the site draws interest for its historic architecture, reconstruction efforts and local heritage.
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The Great Mosque of al-Nuri in Mosul is a historic mosque in the city’s Old City, renowned for its distinctive leaning minaret known as al-Hadba. The mosque dated from the 12th century, when it was commissioned by the Zengid ruler Nur ad-Din, and served as a major religious and community landmark.
The mosque complex included a prominent minaret and a large prayer hall. The leaning minaret was a visual symbol of Mosul for centuries and featured in many historic descriptions and photographs.
During urban combat in 2017 the minaret and large sections of the mosque complex were destroyed; the loss attracted international attention. International and Iraqi-led restoration programs subsequently rebuilt the site, and a reconstructed mosque and minaret were reopened as part of rehabilitation work in the city.
Located in Mosul’s Old City in Nineveh Governorate, the mosque stands within the historic fabric of the city and is closely associated with Mosul’s pre-modern urban core.
- Destruction & reconstruction: The original minaret collapsed in 2017 during the battle for Mosul; reconstruction of the mosque and minaret was completed and the site reopened in 2022 as part of wider restoration efforts.
What to See #
- Al-Hadba minaret: The leaning minaret historically known as al-Hadba, which was a defining visual feature before its collapse and has been the focus of reconstruction efforts.
- Main prayer hall: The mosque's main prayer hall and courtyard, historically used for daily prayers and community gatherings in Mosul's Old City.
How to Get to Great Mosque of al-Nuri, Mosul #
The Great Mosque of al‑Nuri is in Mosul’s Old City on the Tigris River. It is reached from elsewhere in Mosul by taxi or on foot from surrounding neighbourhoods; visitors normally arrive via local road/taxi from Mosul city centre or from the main bus/taxi hubs in the city.
Tips for Visiting Great Mosque of al-Nuri, Mosul #
- The historic Great Mosque of al‑Nuri and its leaning minaret were destroyed during conflict in 2017 and have been subject to reconstruction and archaeological work; confirm current access and opening status with Iraqi authorities before planning a visit.
- Because the site lies in Mosul's Old City and remains sensitive, arrange visits through licensed local guides or official channels and verify security advisories and permit requirements in advance.
- Respect restrictions around reconstruction and heritage work: photography, close approaches, and access to specific areas are often limited while restoration continues.
Best Time to Visit Great Mosque of al-Nuri, Mosul #
Prefer the cooler months (October-April) for more comfortable daytime temperatures; always confirm local access and safety conditions before planning a visit.
Weather & Climate near Great Mosque of al-Nuri, Mosul #
Great Mosque of al-Nuri, Mosul's climate is classified as Hot Semi-Arid - Hot Semi-Arid climate with very hot summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 4°C to 41°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 11°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (79 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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February
February is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 5°C. Regular rainfall (85 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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March
March is cool with highs of 19°C and lows of 9°C. The wettest month with 89 mm of rain and partly cloudy skies.
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April
April is mild with highs of 24°C and lows of 13°C. Moderate rainfall (63 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
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May
May is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 19°C. Light rainfall.
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June
June is hot with highs of 38°C and lows of 24°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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July
July is the hottest month with highs of 41°C and lows of 27°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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August
August is hot with highs of 41°C and lows of 26°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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September
September is hot with highs of 36°C and lows of 22°C. The driest month with just 0 mm and clear sunny skies.
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October
October is mild with highs of 29°C and lows of 16°C. Light rainfall and mostly sunny skies.
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November
November is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 10°C. Moderate rainfall (51 mm).
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December
December is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (71 mm) and partly cloudy skies.
