In close coordination with the Iraqi Armed Forces, UNESCO initiated the first phase of activities by clearing the rubble and UXOs from the first 34 selected houses around the Al-Nouri Mosque in Mosul, Iraq. The process of clearing the grounds is more than just the removal of old stones. In fact, amidst the rubble there are valuable pieces that could be reused during reconstruction. This is another example of UNESCO’s commitment to restoring the structures with every effort taken to preserve their historic integrity.
This initiative is made possible with the generous support of the European Union and coordinated work with the Government of Iraq, local partners and international experts. It is being undertaken as a major part of UNESCO’s Initiative to Revive the Spirit of Mosul. This initiative includes three main strategic areas: education, cultural life, and heritage.
UNESCO has undertaken the delicate task of reconstruction from amidst the ruins while ensuring strict adherence to the historic integrity of the structures.
The purpose of the project is to promote livelihood opportunities for youth in Iraq and in particular among the communities of the Old City of Mosul and to contribute to the restoration of the historic urban landscape while contributing to social cohesion and inter-community reconciliation.
Project page: https://en.unesco.org/fieldoffice/baghdad/mosulbasra
