Qasr al-'Ashiq

The rectangular palace structure incorporates two floors with catacombs, extensive yards, protective walls, and a moat fed by underground channels from western highlands.

The construction of Qasr al-'Ashiq occurred between 877 and 882 under the reign of the fifteenth Abbasid caliph Al-Mu'tamid on the western bank of Tigris.

The palace name changed from al-Ma'shuq, meaning beloved, reflecting the deep connection between the structure and the medieval inhabitants of the region.

Archaeological excavations conducted in the 1960s followed by restoration work in the 1980s have preserved substantial portions of the original structure.

The palace features an elevated moat system that maintains a water level higher than the nearby Tigris River through sophisticated engineering.

Location: Diyala Governorate

Architectural style: Abbasid architecture

GPS coordinates: 33.58831,-7.61139

Latest update: March 13, 2025 12:29