After years of devastation caused by the extremist group Islamic State (IS), historic buildings in Mosul are being brought back to life. These buildings, which include churches and mosques, are being reopened following the city’s liberation from IS in 2017.
The restoration project, initiated and funded by Unesco, began a year after the defeat of IS. Unesco’s director-general, Audrey Azoulay, recently attended a ceremony marking the reopening of these significant sites. The event was also attended by local artisans, residents, and representatives from Mosul’s diverse religious communities.
Mosul, once a symbol of tolerance and co-existence among different religious and ethnic groups in Iraq, fell under IS control in 2014. The group imposed its extremist ideology, targeting minorities and suppressing opposition.
In 2017, a coalition supported by the US, in collaboration with the Iraqi army and state-linked militias, launched a successful offensive to reclaim Mosul from IS. The fiercest battles were fought in the Old City, where IS made its final stand.
Photographer Ali al-Baroodi vividly recalls the devastation he witnessed upon entering the area after the fierce battles. The iconic al-Hadba minaret lay in ruins, symbolizing the city’s transformation into a ghostly landscape.
The restoration efforts not only focused on rebuilding physical structures like churches, mosques, and historic houses but also aimed to revive the spirit of community harmony that once thrived in Mosul.
With a budget of $115 million, a significant portion of which was donated by the United Arab Emirates and the European Union, Unesco spearheaded the rebuilding project. The restoration was led by chief architect Maria Rita Acetoso, who emphasized the importance of cultural preservation in creating job opportunities and fostering a sense of belonging.
Father Olivier Poquillon, a Dominican priest overseeing the restoration of Notre-Dame de l’Heure, emphasized the significance of rebuilding trust among the diverse communities in Mosul as a crucial step towards the city’s recovery.
Reconstruction Efforts in Mosul Revive Hope and Cultural Identity
Amidst the ruins of conflict and political upheaval, the power of construction emerges as a beacon of hope, restoring people’s cultural identity and memory in the war-torn city of Mosul. Against a backdrop of destruction, young generations find solace and revival in the restoration efforts, marking a significant step towards healing and renewal.
According to UNESCO, over 1,300 local youths have been equipped with traditional skills, breathing new life into age-old crafts and traditions. The ripple effect of this initiative has not only created 6,000 job opportunities but also unveiled a sense of purpose and pride among the community members. The transformation is palpable as more than 100 classrooms stand rejuvenated, echoing with the laughter of eager learners.
In a poignant display of resilience, thousands of historical fragments rescued from the rubble serve as poignant reminders of a rich heritage that withstood the test of time. The involvement of female engineers, constituting 30% of the rebuilding efforts, underscores a commitment to inclusivity and empowerment, paving the way for a more equitable future.
One of the city’s enduring symbols, al-Tahera Church, once silenced by the shadows of occupation, now resonates with the chiming of bells, signaling a triumphant return to normalcy. The architectural wonders of Mosul, including the iconic al-Hadba minaret, the al-Saa’a Convent, and the Al-Nouri mosque complex, stand tall once more, a testament to human endeavor and perseverance.
For residents like Mustafa and Abdullah, the reconstruction holds personal significance, breathing life into their ancestral homes that stood witness to centuries of history. Mustafa, whose dwelling dates back to 1864, expresses gratitude at the prospect of rebuilding shattered dreams and memories. Similarly, Abdullah’s family home, steeped in the legacy of the wool trade, serves as a poignant reminder of resilience and continuity.
The scars of the past linger, casting a shadow over the city’s journey towards healing. Iraq, with its complex tapestry of challenges, remains a work in progress, navigating a fragile landscape of uncertainty. Yet, amidst the rubble, the rebirth of Mosul’s Old City emerges as a beacon of hope, a testament to the indomitable spirit of its inhabitants.
Ali al-Baroodi’s chronicles capture the essence of this renaissance, portraying a city rising from the ashes with grace and resilience. His documentation serves as a tribute to the enduring human spirit, weaving a narrative of hope and restoration.
As Mosul embarks on a path towards reconstruction and renewal, the echoes of the past mingle with the aspirations of the future, creating a symphony of resilience and revival. The journey ahead may be fraught with challenges, but the spirit of Mosul remains unbroken, a testament to the enduring strength of its people.
In a world marred by turmoil, the transformation of Mosul offers a glimmer of hope, a reminder that even amidst the darkest
