Samara City Iraq, Located on the Tigris River, it is the site of a prehistoric settlement of the 5th millennium bce. Sāmarrā (Arabic: سامَرّاء‎) is a city in Iraq. The Abbasid caliph al-Muʿtasim Bi’llah founded the city in 836, although there is also some evidence of pre-Islamic settlement. Samarra has the best preserved plan of an ancient large city, being abandoned relatively early and so avoiding the constant rebuilding of longer lasting cities. By exploring Samarra’s unparalleled remains, we can understand the wealth and artistic creativity of the early Islamic period. Samarra was the second capital of the Abbasid Caliphate after Baghdad. Samarra (Arabic: سَامَرَّاء, Sāmarrāʾ) is a city in Iraq. Aug 8, 2025 · You will find the best things to do in Samarra, Iraq, in this post, along with everything you should know before visiting this fascinating city. Samarra (Arabic: سَامَرَّاء, Sāmarrāʾ) is a city in Iraq. In 2003 the city had an estimated population of 348,700. . It stands on the east bank of the Tigris in the Saladin Governorate, 125 kilometers (78 mi) north of Baghdad. Explore the timeless beauty and cultural legacy of Samarra Iraq, a key gem of the Abbasid era. Sāmarrāʾ, town, Ṣalāḥ al-Dīn muḥāfaẓah (governorate), central Iraq. Samarra Iraq is a city of remarkable Islamic heritage, known for its stunning architecture, including the iconic spiral minaret and historic Great Mosque. Samarra is in the Sunni Triangle.