After years of devastation inflicted by the Islamic State group, Mosul is gradually restoring its historic landmarks and community spirit with the help of UNESCO and local artisans.
Rebuilding Hope: Mosul's Landmarks Resurrected After Years of Destruction
Rebuilding Hope: Mosul's Landmarks Resurrected After Years of Destruction
Historic sites in Mosul are reopening as the city emerges from the shadows of IS's violent past, with community involvement central to the restoration efforts.
The historic city of Mosul, long a symbol of tolerance and diversity in Iraq, is currently witnessing a remarkable transformation as it begins to reopen its cherished landmarks that were ravaged during the brutal takeover by the Islamic State (IS) group. The efforts to restore the city's architectural heritage kicked off shortly after IS was expelled in 2017.
This week, a significant ceremony is being held, attended by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani, marking the reopening of several historical sites. Local artisans and representatives from Mosul's diverse religious communities, who have worked tirelessly on these restoration projects, are also involved in this momentous event.
In 2014, Mosul fell under the control of IS, which imposed its extremist ideology, brutally targeting minority groups and individuals who opposed their regime. This painful chapter lasted until a US-backed coalition, alongside Iraqi forces, launched a decisive campaign to reclaim the city. The culmination of the battles left much of the Old City in ruins, including the emblematic al-Hadba minaret, affectionately known as the "hunchback," which was destroyed during the conflict.
Photographer Ali al-Baroodi recalls the desolation he encountered as he entered Mosul after the liberation, describing the city as a "ghost town" with a haunting atmosphere that marked the loss of its historic skyline. The task of rebuilding the city was monumental, with around 80% of the Old City devastated. Unesco spearheaded recovery efforts with a budget of $115 million, largely funded by contributions from the UAE and the European Union.
Father Olivier Poquillon, a Dominican priest, has returned to oversee the restoration of the al-Saa'a convent, which was severely affected during IS's reign. He expressed the importance of rebuilding not just the physical structures, but also the trust and relationships between the diverse communities that have historically lived in harmony in Mosul.
Chief Architect Maria Rita Acetoso, leading the restoration project, stated that the initiative aims to reinvigorate cultural identity and offer hope, especially to the younger generation grappling with the legacy of conflict. She noted that over 1,300 local youth have been trained in traditional skills, creating around 6,000 jobs in the process. More than 100 classrooms have been restored, and many historical fragments have been salvaged and cataloged.
As landmark sites like the al-Tahera Church and the al-Hadba minaret are restored, residents are emotionally reconnecting with their history. Families such as Mustafa's, whose home dates back to 1864, are rejoicing in the opportunity to return to their restored residences. Another resident, Abdullah, fondly remembers his family's long-standing connection to the Old City, remembering the sorrow he felt over the destruction until UNESCO's restoration allowed him to return home.
While the scars of past violence remain, the revitalization of the Old City of Mosul offers a glimpse of hope for a brighter future. As community members and local photographers like Ali al-Baroodi document the city's resurgence, Mosul's journey of healing continues, symbolizing the unwavering spirit of its resilient inhabitants.
This week, a significant ceremony is being held, attended by UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay and Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudani, marking the reopening of several historical sites. Local artisans and representatives from Mosul's diverse religious communities, who have worked tirelessly on these restoration projects, are also involved in this momentous event.
In 2014, Mosul fell under the control of IS, which imposed its extremist ideology, brutally targeting minority groups and individuals who opposed their regime. This painful chapter lasted until a US-backed coalition, alongside Iraqi forces, launched a decisive campaign to reclaim the city. The culmination of the battles left much of the Old City in ruins, including the emblematic al-Hadba minaret, affectionately known as the "hunchback," which was destroyed during the conflict.
Photographer Ali al-Baroodi recalls the desolation he encountered as he entered Mosul after the liberation, describing the city as a "ghost town" with a haunting atmosphere that marked the loss of its historic skyline. The task of rebuilding the city was monumental, with around 80% of the Old City devastated. Unesco spearheaded recovery efforts with a budget of $115 million, largely funded by contributions from the UAE and the European Union.
Father Olivier Poquillon, a Dominican priest, has returned to oversee the restoration of the al-Saa'a convent, which was severely affected during IS's reign. He expressed the importance of rebuilding not just the physical structures, but also the trust and relationships between the diverse communities that have historically lived in harmony in Mosul.
Chief Architect Maria Rita Acetoso, leading the restoration project, stated that the initiative aims to reinvigorate cultural identity and offer hope, especially to the younger generation grappling with the legacy of conflict. She noted that over 1,300 local youth have been trained in traditional skills, creating around 6,000 jobs in the process. More than 100 classrooms have been restored, and many historical fragments have been salvaged and cataloged.
As landmark sites like the al-Tahera Church and the al-Hadba minaret are restored, residents are emotionally reconnecting with their history. Families such as Mustafa's, whose home dates back to 1864, are rejoicing in the opportunity to return to their restored residences. Another resident, Abdullah, fondly remembers his family's long-standing connection to the Old City, remembering the sorrow he felt over the destruction until UNESCO's restoration allowed him to return home.
While the scars of past violence remain, the revitalization of the Old City of Mosul offers a glimpse of hope for a brighter future. As community members and local photographers like Ali al-Baroodi document the city's resurgence, Mosul's journey of healing continues, symbolizing the unwavering spirit of its resilient inhabitants.
