The historic city of Samara, famous for its architectural and cultural heritage, was built by which ruler?

The historic city of Samara was built by the Abbasid Caliph Al-Mu'tasim, who ruled from 833 to 842 CE. This city holds immense architectural and cultural importance in Islamic history. Al-Mu'tasim chose the site along the Tigris River for strategic and administrative reasons, intending to create a new capital away from Baghdad due to political tensions involving the Turkish military units he had introduced. Samara soon became a magnificent urban center known for its grand palaces, wide avenues, and unique architectural designs that reflected the artistic excellence of the Abbasid era.

One of the most remarkable features of Samara is its distinctive architectural heritage, including the famous Malwiya Minaret of the Great Mosque of Samarra. This spiral tower is considered one of the most iconic structures in Islamic architecture and stands as a symbol of the city's historical grandeur. Under Al-Mu'tasim and his successor Al-Mutawakkil, Samara developed into one of the largest cities in the ancient world, showcasing advanced urban planning, cultural innovation, and artistic development.

The city remained the Abbasid capital for almost 60 years, playing a central role in political, military, and intellectual activities. Its archaeological remains, which stretch over many kilometers, are a valuable source of knowledge about early Islamic civilization. Because of its importance, Samara was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, highlighting its global cultural significance.

This question is commonly asked in General Knowledge MCQs related to Islamic history, rulers of the Abbasid Caliphate, and ancient cities. Knowing that Al-Mu'tasim founded Samara helps students score well in competitive exams where historical facts are frequently tested.