91�鶹������Ʒ����

On the eve of the seventh anniversary of Mosul's liberation, UNESCO takes stock of the significant achievements under its flagship initiative "Revive the Spirit of Mosul" supported by the United Arab Emirates, the European Union as well as 13 other partners, and in partnership with the Iraqi government. This initiative aims to support heritage preservation, educational development, and community revitalization through multiple projects.

Key Achievements

Reconstruction of Iconic Landmarks: 91�鶹������Ʒ���� made remarkable progress in rebuilding Mosul's cultural and historical landmarks:

• Al-Nouri Mosque and Al-Hadba minaret

These symbols of Mosul's heritage are being meticulously reconstructed, with the financial support of the United Arab Emirates. Efforts have included extensive studies, reinforcement of structures, and careful selection of rebuilding methods. The construction stages of the Al-Hadba minaret have reached advanced phases, and it will begin to rise in the city’s skyline in the coming weeks. The prayer hall and service buildings of the Al-Nouri Mosque are being rebuilt, integrating archaeological discoveries from the 12th century while also ensuring the preservation of the Green Dome, symbolizing resilience in the face of conflict. Despite the many challenges that arose over the years, such as the recent discovery and removal of hidden explosives, the reconstruction of the Al-Nouri Mosque complex remains on track for completion by year’s end.

• Al-Saa'a Convent and the House of Prayer, and Al-Tahera Church

Al-Saa'a Convent has been fully reconstructed with the financial support of the United Arab Emirates. Its bells and famous clock have regained their place in the Mosul skyline. The rehabilitation of the House of Prayer near the church is also fully completed, with the financial support of ALIPH), ensuring the preservation of architectural details and heritage integrity. Al-Tahera Church is in the final stages of reconstruction, with the support of UAE. Its bells have been recently installed, and the entire site will be ready for handover in the coming weeks.

• Heritage Houses and Al-Ekhlas Primary School

With the financial support of the European Union, 91�鶹������Ʒ���� carefully rebuilt 124 heritage houses, restoring original details and reviving traditional architectural styles. Many of them are now inhabited again. The project also included upgrading public alleyways and infrastructure to  increase the appeal of the historic neighborhoods for the residents.  In addition, the project involved the complete reconstruction of two heavily damaged and historically significant palatial houses – Suliman Al Sayegh and Al Zyada palatial houses – owned by the Iraqi Ministry of Culture. These houses are intended for cultural and artistic activities. As for the Al-Ekhlas Primary School, it has been built and equipped to serve as Mosul's first child-friendly school, featuring 12 classrooms, a library, and various child-friendly activities.

Job creation and skills development

UNESCO’s projects provided around 6,200 job opportunities for Mosulis, enabling them to participate in the reconstruction of their city. The UNESCO Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) program has also benefited more than 1,400 unemployed youths, equipping them with new skills and facilitating their entry into the labor market. In the upcoming months, additional 1,400 youth will benefit from the TVET training, and TVET institutions will benefit from equipment and curriculums, as well as the rehabilitation of facilities. 

Restoring the Mosul University Library

UNESCO works to ensure that the Mosul University Library resumes operations and becomes accessible by providing digital equipment and training librarians, with the financial support of Italy. It also includes restoration, digitization and preservation of manuscripts, rare books, periodicals and manuals as well as supporting partnerships with national and international institutions. 

As a part of this initiative, 87 library staff are receiving training in library management, cataloging/ indexing, digitalization, collections management, borrowing and lending and restoration of rare materials. Additionally, partnerships with 4 institutions were established to support the exchange of expertise and knowledge resources. These activities, along with the ongoing creation of a restoration and preservation unit for rare materials and the cataloging and digitalization of library resources, will benefit more than 60,000 students and 5,000 staff members of Mosul University, as well as the wider community.

Fostering cultural revival

UNESCO is committed to reviving Mosul's cultural life by creating spaces for cultural and creative activities, intended to serve as hubs for artists, intellectuals, and the community to engage in cultural expressions and events. UNESCO also trained 20 young students from Mosul, in collaboration with the City Theatre of Ghent, and 9 short movies have been shot and produced by them in the city. A Film Lab was also established at the Institute of Fine Arts of Mosul.

The Revive the Spirit of Mosul initiative has also relaunched various cultural festivals, music performances, film screenings, and other events, helping to restore Mosul's vibrant cultural scene. UNESCO also established in the Old City a “Community Information Center”, located by the river Tigris, which organizes events, including cultural activities and weekly visits to the heritage and education programs for students in the community. Since its opening in November 2022, hosting more than 67,000 national and international visitors so far.