Great Mosque of al-Nuri, Mosul Mosque

Address: Great Mosque of al‑Nuri (al‑Nuri), Mosul, Nineveh Governorate, Iraq

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.

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.

• 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.