Great Mosque of al-Nuri

Welcome to Mosul, Iraq, where you can visit the historic Great Mosque of al-Nuri, famous for its iconic leaning minaret nicknamed al-Hadba ("the hunchback"). Originally built in the late 12th century by Nur ad-Din Zangi, this Sunni mosque holds deep historic and symbolic significance for the city. As you explore the site, you will see a location that has endured an 850-year history, surviving invasion, dismantling and reassembly in 1942, and tragic destruction during the 2017 Battle of Mosul.

Following a major international reconstruction effort funded by the UAE and UNESCO, the site reopened in 2024. During your visit, you can observe the reconstructed mosque, which features a project design that preserves the square base of the original leaning minaret as a memorial to victims of ISIS, alongside a replica minaret soaring back into the Mosul skyline. You will also discover the surrounding complex, which historically featured decorative brickwork geometric patterns and an 11th-century madrasa built by Nizam al-Mulk.

Visiting this resilient landmark offers you an extraordinary opportunity to witness Mosul's rich heritage, remarkable history, and powerful story of rebirth and cultural preservation.

What to see at Great Mosque of al-Nuri

• The iconic minaret al-Hadba ('the hunchback'), famous for its historical tilt and geometric brickwork.
• The preserved square base of the original minaret, kept as a memorial to victims of ISIS.
• The reconstructed mosque complex, restored through a joint effort by UNESCO, the UAE, and Iraq.
• The historic 11th-century madrasa originally built by Nizam al-Mulk.

Visiting tips

Keep an eye out for Iraq's 10,000 dinar note to see the historic leaning minaret depicted on the currency.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Great Mosque of al-Nuri is easy to reach on Mosul’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Nineveh. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Mosul travel guide.