Samarra is a city in Iraq, located on the eastern bank of the Tigris River, about 125 km north of Baghdad. It was the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate from 836 to 892 CE and is known for its remarkable historical landmarks, including the Great Mosque of Samarra and the spiral minaret, Al-Mutawakkil Mosque.

The Great Mosque of Samarra is one of the largest mosques in the world, with a unique design that features a large hypostyle prayer hall with multiple aisles and rows of columns. The mosque also has a massive courtyard and a distinctive minaret, the Malwiya Tower. The tower is 52 meters tall and is believed to have been built in 852 CE. Its spiraling exterior staircase leads to the top of the tower, providing stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

In addition to the Great Mosque, Samarra is also known for the Abbasid Palace, which was built in the 9th century CE and was the residence of the Abbasid caliphs. The palace complex consists of several buildings, including the Throne Hall, the Green Pavilion, and the Salam Palace.

Another notable landmark in Samarra is the Al-Askari Mosque, which is the burial site of two Shia Imams. The mosque has a distinctive blue dome and two minarets, and it is considered one of the most important pilgrimage sites for Shia Muslims.