Repairing of the protective roof over the ruins of the Mosque of Haji Pyada, Balkh

The Mosque of Haji Pyada, built in the second half of the 9th century, is the most ancient Islamic religious structure in Afghanistan.

Its form, a small square divided into nine equal sections covered with domes, can be found in other early mosques in Mesopotamia, Egypt and North Africa. The mosque was constructed of dried earth and is now in very bad state of conservation, and a metal roof was constructed about forty years ago to protect against harsh climatic conditions. However, the roof was seriously damaged over the last several decades, and was no longer adequately protecting the structure.

This project, coordinated and funded by UNESCO and implemented by the Agency for Technical Cooperation and Development (ACTED), rehabilitated the protective roof over the ruins of the Mosque. It was completed in December 2002.

Results

• Repaired the protective roof over the ruins of the Mosque of Haji Pyada in Balkh to protect the building against harsh climatic conditions;
• Purchased the equipment and materials required to implement the construction;
• Hired local workers, coordinated and supervised construction work.

Lead Organization / Sector / Office:UNESCO - Section of Tangible Heritage
Associated Organization(s): ACTED