Mar Mattai monastery, Syrian Orthodox monastery in Mosul, Iraq

Mar Mattai monastery stands on Mount Alfaf, 20 kilometers northeast of Mosul. Mor Mattai the Hermit founded it in 363 with 25 monks who had fled persecution in Amid; they lived in huts and caves around the site. The complex was enclosed by a strong wall and held water tanks, a church, and cells for the monks.

The monastery was founded in 363 CE when Saint Matthew fled persecution under Roman Emperor Julian. This establishment marked the beginning of a long history of Syriac Orthodox faith and religious resistance in the region.

The monastery served as a major center for Syriac Orthodox scholarship and religious learning. Its library preserved ancient Christian texts that held deep meaning for believers throughout the region.

The monastery sits approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Mosul and is reached via a mountain path. Access involves a winding route with steep sections, so visitors should wear sturdy footwear and be prepared for a physical walk.

The monastery's library once held thousands of Syriac manuscripts; a fire in 480 AD and later attacks left only 224, among them a New Testament copy dated 1222. Three Syriac Orthodox patriarchs, Ignatius Jirjis II, Ignatius Ishaq and Ignatius Yacoub III, studied here.