In close collaboration with the Dominican Order and other Iraqi relevant authorities UNESCO –- will now start the preparatory phase for the stabilization and rehabilitation of the Conventual Church of Our Lady of the Hour in Mosul. The preparatory phase includes, as priority, the implementation of targeted measures aimed at securing the site, and clearing it from potential unexploded ordonnances, as well as removing rubble derived from the destruction of some sectors of the complex.
With the scope of starting this phase, a joint visit of UNESCO local Team and representatives of the Dominican Order in Iraq has just taken place, in order to jointly analyse the main challenges, identify operational steps and proceed with a smooth implementation plan.
This component is part of the Unesco Initiative to Revive the Spirit of Mosul and will include all the phases of a stabilization/rehabilitation project (from site clearance and initial survey to the preparation of the detailed design for the actual execution of the works), which will create a unique ‘on the-job training’ opportunity for local heritage professionals and craftsmen.
In fact, the actual implementation of this component will be closely integrated with the long-term capacity building program foreseen within the scope of the Initiative. The rehabilitation of this church is important not only because of its value as cultural heritage, but also as a testimony to the diversity of the city, a proud crossroads of cultures and a peaceful haven for different religious communities over the centuries.
Find out more: https://en.unesco.org/fieldoffice/baghdad/projects