Mosul Resurrects Its Historic Heart: Icons of Culture and Unity Reopen Post-IS Reign**

After years of being battered by the extremist group's violence, Mosul is seeing the reopening of its cherished landmarks, an initiative funded by Unesco. Local communities, artisans, and resilient residents unite to restore the city, fostering a renewed sense of cultural identity and hope for the future.**

Historic structures in Mosul are beginning to emerge from the ashes of destruction inflicted by the Islamic State (IS) group, with many churches and mosques set to welcome back visitors. This ambitious restoration campaign, spearheaded by Unesco, commenced shortly after the city was liberated in 2017. A ceremony celebrating the project is scheduled, where Unesco’s director-general Audrey Azoulay, local craftsmen, and representatives from diverse religious backgrounds will participate.

Mosul was under IS control from 2014, transforming the city from a beacon of peaceful coexistence to a landscape of terror and violence. The group ruthlessly persecuted minorities, enforcing an extreme ideology resulting in countless atrocities. The city was freed through a costly US-backed military campaign in 2017, yet not without leaving a trail of devastation—particularly across the Old City, where fierce battles ensued.

Photographer Ali al-Baroodi recollects the chilling sights that greeted him post-liberation, describing the haunting image of the iconic leaning al-Hadba minaret lying in ruins, representing centuries of history and spirit. The aftermath transformed Mosul into a desolate canvas, marked by loss and despair, a reality he struggled to reconcile as he worked to document the city’s recovery.

The challenge of rebuilding extended beyond constructing restored structures; it involved rekindling the communal bonds that characterized the city for centuries. Unesco’s extensive initiative, with a budget of $115 million sourced mainly from the UAE and the European Union, commenced to repair not only churches and homes but also the very fabric of trust that underpinned community life. Under the leadership of Dominican priest Father Olivier Poquillon, local community members have united—Christians and Muslims alike—to participate in the revival of significant historical sites, like the al-Saa'a convent.

Chief architect Maria Rita Acetoso, who recently transitioned from Unesco’s restoration efforts in Afghanistan, emphasizes the critical role culture plays in job creation and fostering a meaningful sense of belonging. Unesco's funding has enabled training for over 1,300 local youth in traditional crafts, created around 6,000 jobs, and facilitated the renovation of over 100 classrooms, revitalizing both education and trades.

After years of silence, the bells are ringing anew from al-Tahera Church, one of the many symbols of resilience and rejuvenation. Other notable landmarks, including the complex of Al-Nouri mosque and the al-Hadba minaret, have also regained their former luster.

Residents, such as Mustafa, whose family home has stood since 1864, express deep joy as they witness the rebirth of their neighborhoods—a process that rekindles memories and futures lost to violence. Similarly, Abdullah reflects on the deep-rooted attachment his family has to their home, restored thanks to the dedicated efforts of Unesco.

Though many scars linger as Iraq continues to navigate the complexities of recovery, the revival of Mosul’s historic heart is a beacon of hope. As Ali al-Baroodi poignantly observes, the city is akin to a “dead person coming back to life,” illustrating the indomitable spirit and cultural heritage that defines Mosul's identity.