MOSUL, Iraq (AP) — The Great Mosque of al-Nuri’s iconic leaning minaret, a symbol of Mosul for over 850 years, was tragically destroyed by the Islamic State group in 2017. Almost a decade after the city was liberated from IS militants, the minaret has been reconstructed as part of a significant international effort to restore Mosul’s historic sites.
Saad Muhammed Jarjees, a resident of Mosul’s Old City, vividly recalled his daily view of the Al-Hadbaa Minaret from his window and the heartbreak he felt when it collapsed. “During the IS occupation, seeing their flag atop the minaret was a painful reminder. We yearned for the day that flag would be taken down, signaling our liberation,” he reminisced.
UNESCO, in collaboration with Iraqi heritage and Sunni religious authorities, oversaw the reconstruction of the minaret using traditional methods and salvaged materials. For the people of Mosul, this restoration holds immense personal significance, embodying the city’s identity and cherished memories.
The official reopening of the minaret is scheduled in the upcoming weeks, with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani expected to attend. Ruwaid Allayla, Director of the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage, emphasized the restoration’s importance in preserving Mosul’s cultural heritage and maintaining its UNESCO World Heritage status.
Site engineer Omar Taqa highlighted the challenges faced in rebuilding a site ravaged by war, such as clearing war remnants entangled in the rubble and preserving historical artifacts. Detailed engineering and historical studies were crucial in recreating the essence of the original structure.
During a recent visit, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay commended the extensive restoration efforts in Mosul, which involved the reconstructing of not only the minaret but also other significant sites like the al-Nuri Mosque, al-Tahira, and al-Sa’aa churches. Azoulay noted the unprecedented complexity of this post-conflict reconstruction, with 80% of the Old City reduced to ruins.
UNESCO spearheaded a $115 million reconstruction project, with substantial contributions from the United Arab Emirates and the European Union. In addition to Muslim landmarks, efforts have been made to restore Mosul’s Christian sites, aiming to revive the city’s diverse cultural heritage and facilitate the return of displaced residents.
Returned to their homes in Mosul but commute there for church on Sundays, the residents of the city now have a place of worship to gather at – al-Tahira Church, which has been beautifully restored. Mar Benedictus Younan Hanno, the Archbishop of Mosul for Syriac Catholics, emphasized that the reconstruction efforts extend beyond mere buildings. He highlighted that the primary objective of rebuilding churches today is to breathe life back into the rich history that our ancestors once experienced. Hanno expressed that revisiting these sacred spaces allows Mosul Christians to connect with their past, recalling moments of education, baptism, and prayer. This nostalgic journey could potentially reignite the desire for them to reclaim their homeland.
The resounding sound of church bells and the harmonious hymns of church choirs echoing once again in Mosul carry a significant message. Irina Bokova Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, noted that it symbolizes the city’s return to its true essence – a diverse and inclusive identity. She emphasized the importance of this restoration, highlighting the heartwarming fact that the reconstruction of al-Tahira Church was made possible by the hands of Iraqi individuals, predominantly Muslims, who took joy in reviving this vital community space.
UNESCO’s involvement in the restoration of Mosul serves as a guiding model for the organization’s future endeavors in rebuilding cultural sites in conflict-afflicted regions. With neighboring Syria emerging from a prolonged period of civil unrest, following the downfall of former President Bashar Assad, UNESCO’s experience in Mosul is invaluable. Azoulay underscored that the knowledge gained through this initiative equips UNESCO with newfound expertise in post-conflict scenarios, which can be applied to similar crises worldwide.
While refraining from detailing UNESCO’s specific plans for Syria, Azoulay expressed eagerness to extend the organization’s support to other regions, should the political and security landscapes permit. As the wounds of Mosul continue to heal gradually, Azoulay stressed that the progress made thus far stands as a poignant beginning, signifying renewed hope for the city’s future.
