Rebirth of Mosul: Landmark Restorations Signal New Hope

After years of destruction and suffering, Mosul is witnessing the triumph of restoration, with its historic landmarks reopening thanks to a UNESCO-led initiative.

The city of Mosul is reclaiming its historic identity as UNESCO undertakes vital restorations of its significant landmarks, providing a beacon of hope for its residents after years of violence and destruction at the hands of the Islamic State (IS) group. In a momentous event set to take place on Wednesday, UNESCO’s Director-General, Audrey Azoulay, will attend a ceremony celebrating the reopening of these historic sites, including churches and mosques ravaged during the conflict.

The upheaval for Mosul started in 2014 when IS seized control, establishing an oppressive regime that targeted minorities and instilled fear until liberation came in 2017. Over that three-year nightmare, approximately 80% of the Old City was destroyed. Among the ruins was the iconic al-Hadba minaret, affectionately known as the “hunchback,” which had graced the skyline for centuries.

As recovery efforts gained momentum, local artisans, community leaders, and representatives from diverse religious backgrounds came together to rebuild the city. A significant aspect of the restoration involved providing training in traditional crafts to over 1,300 young locals and creating around 6,000 jobs in the process.

Father Olivier Poquillon, a Dominican priest involved in the project, emphasized the importance of fostering trust and collaboration among the different communities to ensure the restoration's success. “Rebuilding trust is vital; without it, the structures we restore might again become targets,” he noted.

Chief architect Maria Rita Acetoso highlighted that the project not only restores the city’s infrastructure but also revitalizes its cultural identity, especially for younger generations who have grown up amid violence. “This reconstruction is essential for restoring hope and a sense of community amid recovery,” she shared.

As Mosul embraces its restored landmarks, poignant stories of residents returning to their homes reflect the emotional impact of rebuilding. Families like Mustafa’s and Abdullah’s, who have lived in the Old City for generations, express immense joy in witnessing their homes restored after enduring the despair of conflict.

While scars linger from the traumatic events of recent years, the revitalization of Mosul stands as a powerful testament to resilience. As acclaimed local photographer Ali al-Baroodi aptly stated, the city feels as if it is coming back to life in a “beautiful way,” marking a critical step toward healing and hope for a brighter future.