Rabban Hormizd Monastery in Alqosh, Iraqi Kurdistan
Updated January 2026 (originally published July 2020)
The Rabban Hormizd Monastery, founded around 640 AD by the monk Rabban Hormizd, clings dramatically to a mountainside above the ancient Assyrian/Chaldean town of Alqosh in northern Iraq (under Iraqi Kurdistan administration). This 7th-century complex—partially carved into rock—served as a key residence for Chaldean Catholic patriarchs from the 16th to 19th centuries and remains a vital pilgrimage site for Chaldeans, many tracing roots to ancient Assyria.
Despite historical attacks (including Kurdish raids in the 19th century and proximity to ISIS advances in 2014), the site endured and reopened to visitors. A newer Monastery of Notre Dame des Semences (built 1859) sits nearby in the plains, but the ancient Rabban Hormizd retains its spiritual prominence.
Quick History
Rabban Hormizd, born in Sassanid Persia (modern Khuzestan, Iran), traveled west seeking monastic life. After decades at other monasteries, he settled near Alqosh in his 60s, where locals built this sanctuary for him. The site played a pivotal role in the 16th-century schism forming the Chaldean Catholic Church (united with Rome). Abandoned periods followed attacks and disease, but restorations occurred in the 19th century. Today, it’s a symbol of Christian resilience in the region.
Visiting Today (2026)
The monastery is open and accessible for tourists/pilgrims. Expect a short uphill walk or drive from Alqosh (stairs/road available). Residents like caretakers often provide informal tours, sharing history and access to cells, chapels, and Rabban Hormizd’s cave. Combine with nearby sites like the Tomb of Nahum (Jewish prophet) in Alqosh.
How to Get There
Alqosh lies ~45 km north of Mosul, easily reached from Erbil (~2–3 hours drive) or Dohuk (~45 minutes). Best via private car/tour (roads good; checkpoints possible but straightforward for tourists in Kurdistan).
- Day Trip: Hire driver/guide from Erbil/Dohuk (~$100–150 USD) or join organized tours (often paired with Lalish Yazidi temple).
- Public/Shared Taxi: Limited; possible from Dohuk but unreliable—hitchhiking reported.
No entrance fee mentioned; donations appreciated.
Pair with Lalish or other Assyrian sites for a full day. Iraqi Kurdistan remains safe/stable for tourism in 2026.
Epic blend of history, faith, and dramatic scenery. Questions about visiting? Comment below!