Nineveh
The city of Mosul in Iraq is recognized as the second largest city in the country, with a population of approximately two million residents. It serves as the administrative center and capital of Nineveh Governorate and is situated 465 kilometers away from the capital city, Baghdad. The local dialect spoken by its inhabitants bears resemblance to the dialects of northern Syrian cities.
The majority of Mosul’s residents are Sunni Muslims, and the city is home to five major tribes: Shammar, Al-Jubour, Al-Dulaim, Tayy, and Al-Buqara. Additionally, the Christian community in the area is composed mainly of Kurds, Turkmen, and Assyrians. Mosul’s economic activities heavily rely on trade with neighboring countries, particularly Syria and Turkey.
Mosul has been bestowed with several nicknames, including “Al-Hadba,” referring to the bend of the Tigris River as it flows north of the city. It is also known as “Umm al-Rabi’in,” which translates to “Mother of Two Springs,” due to the balanced climate conditions experienced during spring and autumn. Other notable nicknames include “Al-Khadra” (the Green) and “Al-Bayda” (the White), attributed to the white marble and gypsum that adorn many of the city’s ancient buildings.
Mosul Climate
Mosul experiences a semi-arid climate due to its elevation of 220 meters above sea level. The summers are characterized by dryness and elevated temperatures. In contrast, winter is marked by rainfall, which can reach up to 375 millimeters. Temperatures may sometimes drop below freezing during the cold season.
Historical Sites in Mosul
- Najafi Street: One of the oldest streets in Mosul, Najafi Street holds significant cultural importance. It was home to the city’s first library and publishing house, fostering a love for reading and culture among Mosul residents. The local libraries offer a rich collection of Islamic jurisprudence, sectarian literature, interpretations of the Quran, as well as international and Arabic novels, and history books.
- Mosques: The city features two prominent mosques:
- The Umayyad Mosque: This mosque was constructed by Utbah ibn Farqad Al-Sulami in the 16th year of the Hijra, corresponding to 637 AD, during the early Islamic period. Locally, it is now referred to as the Old Mosque.
- The Great Mosque: Built in 668 AH (1172 AD) by the just ruler Nur al-Din, this mosque is recognized as the second mosque in Mosul. Although much of the mosque’s structure has vanished, the celebrated Al-Hadba Minaret remains one of Mosul’s most iconic landmarks.
- Churches:
- Church of Saint Thomas for the Syriac Orthodox: Considered one of the oldest churches in Mosul, it is believed to have been established in the 6th century AD and serves as the headquarters for the Syriac Orthodox Diocese of Mosul.
- Church of Saint Ahudama: Constructed by the Takritians who migrated to Mosul in the 9th century.
- Church of Saint Fathion: Built in the 10th century, it is among the oldest churches catering to the Chaldeans.
- Clock Church: Founded in 1873 by Dominican priests, its most notable feature is the clock tower.