Mosul Al-Nuri Mosque restoration has brought a historic symbol back to life after years of destruction. The mosque, destroyed by ISIS in 2017, reopened today as a landmark of cultural resilience.
The project, supported jointly by Iraq and the UAE and supervised by UNESCO, aimed to revive Mosul’s architectural heritage. Alongside the mosque, landmarks like Al-Hadba Minaret and the Tahira Church were carefully restored to preserve the city’s identity.
Local residents expressed deep emotions during the reopening. Salah Al-Maadhidi, a shop owner, said, “It feels priceless. Today feels like a celebration for our old, wounded city.” Such sentiments highlight the symbolic importance of the restoration for Mosul’s citizens.
The mosque also carries a heavy historical memory. Hussein Abbas, a teacher and worshipper, recalled the moment Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi used its pulpit to declare the so-called Islamic State. Abbas explained, “ISIS tried to make this mosque a symbol of their rule, but now it returns to its true community.”
Ali Salem, head of the Heritage Department at Nineveh Antiquities, explained the challenges of the project. Workers faced numerous unexploded devices and explosive belts left by ISIS to destroy the mosque. Salem stated, “With the support of UNESCO, our teams overcame these dangers and completed the restoration.”
Construction began in 2017, with an initial $50 million funding from the UAE. Additional funds were allocated for rebuilding the Tahira Church and supporting other heritage projects in the city. Today, the mosque stands as a testament to resilience, culture, and collaborative restoration efforts.
The reopening of Mosul Al-Nuri Mosque restoration represents more than architecture; it signals hope, continuity, and the revival of local pride. The restored sites now feature original architectural details, blending modern safety standards with historical authenticity.
As flags of Iraq and the UAE waved through Mosul’s streets, the city joyfully celebrated the return of its landmarks. Meanwhile, citizens now enjoy safe access to historical monuments that connect them directly to Mosul’s rich past.
Furthermore, through careful planning and international cooperation, Mosul Al-Nuri Mosque restoration continues to inspire future projects and effectively reinforces the city’s identity.
