⛪ Mar Mattai Monastery
Iraq
About This Sacred Site
Mar Mattai Monastery, also known as St. Matthew's Monastery, is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the world, founded in 363 CE by the hermit Mar Mattai. Perched high on Mount Maqlub (Alfaf) in the Nineveh Plains of northern Iraq, the Syriac Orthodox monastery has survived centuries of conflict and persecution. It houses ancient manuscripts and a library of great scholarly importance. The monastery has served as a seat of learning and a refuge for persecuted Christians throughout its history.
Key Facts
- •Founded in 363 CE, one of the oldest monasteries in existence
- •Perched atop Mount Maqlub at 1,100 meters elevation
- •Belongs to the Syriac Orthodox Church
- •Houses rare ancient manuscripts and religious texts
- •Survived threats from ISIS in 2014
Location
Coordinates: 36.4833, 43.3667
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