Located within the walled city of Raqqa, approximately 400 metres north of the Gate of Baghdad and 150 metres from the eastern city wall, lies the structure…
Located within the walled city of Raqqa, approximately 400 metres north of the Gate of Baghdad and 150 metres from the eastern city wall, lies the structure known as Qasr al-Banat (“The Maidens’ Palace”). Despite its name, no historical references confirm this title or associate it with a specific function or ruler. The designation appears to be derived from local tradition, rather than factual attribution. Archaeological evidence—such as ceramics and coins uncovered during excavations—suggests the original structure dates to the Abbasid period, possibly during the reign of Caliph Abu Ja‘far al-Mansur or Harun al-Rashid, with subsequent phases of renovation. Stylistic features in the architecture and stucco decoration, including a four-iwan axial layout, align it with known examples of Zengid palace architecture, indicating further development during the Zengid period. The palace is a roughly square structure, measuring 42 by 44 metres, and comprises at least 40 rooms. The main entrance is situated on the north wall; after passing through two entry chambers, visitors reach a central courtyard with a well—likely once capped with a marble basin—set in a paved stone floor. Each side of the courtyard features an iwan (vaulted hall), with the northern iwan distinctively tripartite, setting it apart from the others. Particularly noteworthy is a square room on the western side, which has stucco niches adorning the upper section of its 8.7-metre-high walls. A matching room exists on the eastern side, and several spaces retain their original stone slab flooring. An additional room near the northwest entrance is paved with glazed octagonal and round tiles, showcasing the luxurious materials once used throughout the building. Fragments of stucco window frames, wall decorations, and painted surfaces discovered during excavations provide insight into the once lavish interior decoration of the palace.