Al-mawsil, Iraq

Capital City

Life in this heavily war-impacted city of 1.79 million remains challenging, despite its historical importance as Iraq's second-largest urban center. Located on the Tigris River, Mosul struggles to rebuild its infrastructure and economy after years of devastating conflict that left many districts in ruins.

Once a thriving commercial hub known for cement production, sulfur mining, and oil resources, Mosul's industrial base was largely destroyed during IS occupation and subsequent liberation battles. While reconstruction is ongoing, basic services remain inconsistent - water supply cuts are common despite the massive Mosul Dam, and many neighborhoods still show extensive damage.

The city retains vestiges of its rich multicultural past, with ancient mosques, churches and monuments reflecting its historical role as a melting pot of Arabs, Kurds, Assyrians, Turkmens and other groups. However, many historical sites were damaged or destroyed during recent conflicts, including the iconic al-Nuri mosque. Today's population is predominantly Sunni Arab, though some minority communities remain. The University of Mosul and its medical college continue operating as major educational institutions in the region.