The site administrator was very friendly and warmly welcomed us into his office.


Raad then took us to visit the Minaret and the remains of the Great Mosque.


The Malwiya Minaret was built in 848–852 from sandstone and was originally connected to the mosque by a bridge. During the US occupation the minaret was also used by US soldiers as a lookout position.


Walking over to the remains of the Great Mosque. Since 2007 Samarra has been one of the five UNESCO World Heritage sites in Iraq.


The Great Mosque of Samarra was at its time the largest mosque in the world. Only the outer wall and its minaret remain however after it was destroyed in 1278 after the Mongolian invasion of Iraq.


Looking up at the minaret.


There was no outer guard rails so I was a little nervous about the walk up!


A local lady with a cellphone in hand who wanted to take a selfie with me.


Gingerly joining the small crowd on top of the 52 metre tall minaret.


Taking in the view of the Great Mosque remains below.


And a great place for a selfie!


Taking in the view while safely back at the bottom again.


Stopping for a coffee break before starting the journey back south.