ICCROM has embarked on a comprehensive programme to build the capacity of young Moslawi architects, engineers and craftsmen to contribute to the recovery of the cultural heritage of Mosul, Iraq. This programme is implemented through an international partnership agreement with UNESCO under the “Revival of the Spirit of Mosul” initiative, and with the financial support of the Government of the United Arab Emirates and the European Union.
In order to kickstart the programme, ICCROM recently carried out a preparatory mission to Mosul and Erbil from 28 February to 6 March 2021. Nazzareno Todini, Administrative Officer and Rohit Jigyasu, Project Manager teamed up in this mission to hold exploratory meetings with potential partners for establishing relationships with Governmental and University counterparts in Erbil and Mosul and assessing the operational challenges and opportunities of establishing a base for training activities in Mosul.
The capacity building activities will start later this year and continue through 2022. The course modules, theory and practice, are organized under two tracks, aiming at developing local skills with the immediate goal of recovering the built heritage of the Old City of Mosul but also for providing sustainable livelihood opportunities to Moslawi people. Track 1 is associated with training of young building professionals (architects, engineers, etc,) while Track 2 activities are associated with the training of local building craftsmen such as masons, stone carvers, metal, wood workers etc. During the programme, craftsmen will also work with the professionals trained under Track 1. ICCROM is very excited with this unique programme, which will help its valued Member State, Iraq in meeting the enormous challenge of recovering cultural heritage following the devastating conflict.
Heritage Recovery Programme in Mosul, Iraq
