Mosul stands on the banks of the Tigris and has five bridges linking the areas. It is the second largest city in Iraq and is home to the University of Mosul one of the biggest educational centres in the country. The city has been inhabited for centuries and has several historic monuments and places.

The Umayyad Masjid was the first masjid to be built in the city in 640 AD. Next to this is the Nuriddin Masjid built in 1172 AD. One of the most prominent sites is the Nabi Yunus Masjid, built on the Al-Tawba Mountain. It is believed that Prophet Yunus (A.S) was buried here. The Mujahid Masjid and the Masjid of Prophet Jerjis (A.S) are also important sites.

The Mashad Yahya Abul Kassem is known for its conical dome and is located on the right bank of the Tigris. The Bash Tapia Castle is located high above the Tigris. The Qara Serai or the Black Palace dates back to the 13th century, the remnants of which remain today. The Mosul Museum houses several artefacts from the sites of Nineveh and Nimrud.

Mosul has an active arts culture and the Mosul School of Painting refers to the miniature style of painting that emerged in the 12th and 13th century in northern Iraq. The metal craft, which originated in Mosul, influenced the Islamic world.

Mosul also has a large population of Assyrian Christians and as such home to a number of historical churches.