Mar Behnam Monastery, Syriac Catholic monastery in Qaraqosh, Iraq.
Mar Behnam Monastery is a Syriac Catholic monastery in Qaraqosh consisting of a main church building and a separate tomb structure integrated into a small hill called Tell al-Khidr. The architecture blends Romanesque elements with local building traditions and displays artistic influences from both Christian and Islamic periods.
Founded in the 4th century by King Senchareb, the monastery commemorates his children Behnam and Sara, who became martyrs after converting to Christianity. In 1295, it underwent restoration under Mongol ruler Baidu Khan, which brought the addition of significant inscriptions.
The monastery displays elements of Syriac Christian tradition through its layout and decorations, reflecting the region's deep Christian roots. Visitors can see how the site has served as a gathering place for local faith communities across centuries.
The site underwent complete restoration in December 2018 following its liberation from military occupation. Visitors should check current conditions before visiting, as access may vary depending on restoration status and local circumstances.
Above Mar Behnam's tomb sit inscriptions written in Uighur script, an unusual script from the eastern regions. These inscriptions date to 1295 and reveal the region's diverse cultural connections during the Mongol period.
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