Pashtabia Castle

Bash Tapia Castle, also known as Pashtabia Castle, is a historic fortress situated on the western bank of the Tigris River in Mosul, Iraq. Originally constructed in the 12th century, it served as one of seven castles integrated into the city's defensive wall system. Built primarily from stone and stucco, the structure exemplifies medieval military architecture designed to protect the urban center. For centuries, it stood as a prominent landmark and a symbol of Mosul's cultural identity, representing one of the few surviving remnants of the city's ancient fortifications before modern conflicts.

The castle holds significant historical value due to its involvement in major regional conflicts. It suffered damage during Timur's invasion in 1393 but was subsequently rebuilt under the Ottoman Empire. Its most notable military engagement occurred during the Ottoman–Persian War of 1743–1746, when it played a crucial role in the defense of Mosul against the forces of Nader Shah. The successful resistance led by the Pasha of Mosul resulted in the lifting of the siege after just over a month, cementing the castle's reputation as a key defensive stronghold in Iraqi history.

In recent times, the site existed as an archaeological ruin until it faced catastrophic destruction in April 2015. Forces belonging to the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) partially destroyed the structure, dealing a severe blow to the heritage of the region. Today, the castle remains in a ruined condition, standing as a somber testament to both its medieval origins and the recent devastation inflicted upon Iraq's cultural treasures. Despite the damage, it continues to be recognized as an important part of Mosul's historical narrative.