In a historic moment for Iraq’s cultural heritage, UNESCO officially inaugurated the reconstructed Al-Hadba Minaret in the heart of Mosul on Wednesday. The completion of this iconic structure marks a significant milestone in the ongoing restoration of Al-Nuri Grand Mosque, a symbol of the city’s resilience and rich history.

A Monument Reborn After Destruction

Al-Nuri Grand Mosque and its famous Al-Hadba Minaret were almost entirely destroyed in 2017 during the battle to liberate Mosul from ISIS militants. The loss of the “Leaning Minaret”, which had stood for over 840 years, was seen as a cultural catastrophe, erasing part of Iraq’s historical and architectural identity.

Speaking at the grand reopening ceremony, UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay emphasized the significance of the minaret’s reconstruction, stating:

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“Today’s celebration is the result of years of dedicated engineering and archaeological efforts. The destruction of Al-Hadba was not just an attack on a building but on the cultural identity of Mosul. Through this reconstruction, we restore a vital part of the city’s history and pride.”

The event was attended by Nineveh Governor Abdul Qadir Al-Dakhil, members of the provincial council, religious and political figures, and various dignitaries.

International Collaboration in Cultural Revival

Governor Abdul Qadir Al-Dakhil highlighted the symbolic and emotional importance of Al-Hadba’s restoration, describing it as a “revival of the city’s soul.” He thanked UNESCO, the United Arab Emirates, and all international contributors who played a role in funding and supporting the project.

The mosque and minaret are expected to fully reopen by mid-next month, as final restoration work on Al-Nuri Grand Mosque continues. This achievement is viewed as a major step forward in the broader reconstruction of Mosul, a city still recovering from the devastation of war.

Preserving Mosul’s Cultural Identity

Despite the destruction caused by ISIS, Mosul remains a city rich in cultural, religious, and historical heritage. The successful restoration of Al-Hadba Minaret not only serves as a symbol of resilience but also reinforces global efforts to safeguard heritage sites from conflict-related destruction.

As the city moves forward with its reconstruction and cultural revival, the reopening of Al-Hadba stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Mosul and its people.

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