Mor Mattai Monastery

Nestled on the slopes of Mount Alfaf in northern Iraq, the Mor Mattai Monastery is a beacon of ancient Christian heritage. This serene monastery, one of the oldest continuously inhabited Christian monasteries in the world, was founded in 363 AD by Saint Matthew, from whom it derives its name. It is a site of immense religious significance and a testament to the endurance of faith through centuries of challenge and change.

The Mor Mattai Monastery is renowned for its stunning hilltop location, offering panoramic views of the surrounding plains. It is a spiritual haven for the Syriac Orthodox community and a place of pilgrimage for Christians from across the globe. The monastery complex includes a revered church, living quarters for monks, and an extensive library that once held a vast collection of Syriac Christian manuscripts.

Throughout its history, the monastery has withstood numerous invasions and has been a place of refuge for Christian communities. Its remote location and fortifications have allowed it to survive through the ages, preserving ancient traditions and texts. Today, despite the turmoil that has affected the region, Mor Mattai continues to be a site of religious education and a symbol of the enduring Christian presence in Iraq.