Mosul
Mosul is the second largest city in Iraq by population, following Baghdad. It serves as the administrative center of Nineveh province, located in northern Iraq. The residents of Mosul speak a distinctive dialect known as the Mosuli dialect, which has been significantly influenced by Turkish, Kurdish, and Persian languages. The city gained prominence in the 16th century as a trade hub, recognized for its strategic location that facilitated the exchange of goods among various nations.
Names and Epithets of Mosul and Their Origins
The city of Mosul has borne numerous names throughout its history, which include:
- Mosul: The name is derived from its geographical position linking the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, as well as connecting Syria and Azerbaijan.
- Masbial: This term was used by the Greek traveler Xenophon in 401 B.C. It originates from an Assyrian word meaning “the lowland.”
- New Ardashir: Meaning “the new Ardashir,” this name reflects the influence of Persian King Ardashir I, who took significant interest in the city after conquering it in 208 A.D.
- The Fortress of the Armenians: Named by Armenians, this term means “the western fortress,” which emerged after the Assyrians lost control of the region.
- Arabaya: In pre-Islamic times, Mosul was known as Arabaya, which translates to “the residence of the Arabs,” due to the presence of many Arab tribes in the area. The Quraish tribe frequently inquired about “the fertility of Arabaya.”
- Kolan: This name is associated with a Yemeni Arab tribe that converted to Islam in the 10th year of Hijra. A portion of this tribe migrated to the Levant and Mosul before Islam due to conflicts with other Yemeni tribes, and after the advent of Islam, some relocated to Mosul to contribute to the Islamic conquests.
- The Two Fortresses: Following the Islamic victory over the Sassanids in the Battle of Qadisiyyah, part of the Muslim army attacked Tikrit before advancing to Mosul, which was conquered by the commander Rabb’i bin Al-Fakhl Al-Tai.
- Mother of the Two Springs: Mosul is characterized by a temperate climate and fresh water, making it a popular destination for residents of other Iraqi provinces during the spring, summer, and autumn seasons. The fall climate closely resembles that of its spring, leading to its name (“Mother of the Two Springs”).
- Al-Hadba: Historian Yaqut al-Hamawi suggested this name originates from the winding nature of the Tigris River. Another account by Ibn Battuta attributed it to the city’s notable leaning minaret. A third interpretation links it to the twisted minarets of the Grand Mosque.
- Yophimia: An Assyrian name meaning “pleasant,” named after Saint Yophimia. It is said that a visitor who journeyed through 55 cities named each one after a girl and chose this saint’s name for Mosul.
- Al-Zahra: This name was given by a Mosuli poet when he had to leave the city for Aleppo, expressing his love for it in a poem, referring to it as “Al-Zahra.”
- Mother of Fortresses: A medieval term referring to the seven ancient fortresses constructed by the Assyrians for protection, located in Mosul.
- Mother of Excellence: This term is derived from references to Mosul in historical poetry dating back to the Caliphal period.
- Mother of Arrows: Under Saddam Hussein’s regime, this name was attributed to Mosul due to the sacrifices and heroic efforts of its people in defending the city over the years.
- The Verdant City: This name alludes to the abundance of trees, fruits, and citrus plants prevalent in Mosul.
- The Green City: The Tigris River runs through Mosul, surrounded by numerous trees and greenery, giving the landscape a vibrant green appearance.
- The White City: This name is derived from the use of white marble and gypsum in the building constructions of the city.
- Land of Blessing: This name dates back to the 19th century.
- Paradise on Earth: This phrase was coined by poet Hisham Mana in his poetry, recognizing Mosul’s beautiful climate and fertile soil. Many of its names throughout history reflect its geographical features.
Landmarks of Mosul
Mosul is home to numerous distinguished landmarks and ancient historical sites that reflect the diverse civilizations that have thrived there. Some of the most notable landmarks include:
- The Grand Mosque.
- The Umayyad Mosque.
- Najafi Street.
- Assyria.
- The Temple of the Sun God.
- Saint Awdameh Church.
- The Al-Nuri Minaret.