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UNESCO's Revive the Spirit of Mosul: Video Shows Post-Restoration City

cultural-heritage · 2026-04-27

A new video reveals the planned reconstruction of Mosul, Iraq, following the UNESCO-led Revive the Spirit of Mosul initiative. Launched in 2018 with $105.5 million in funding primarily from the UAE and EU, the project aims to rebuild cultural landmarks destroyed during the Daesh occupation (2014-2017), which left 80% of the old city in ruins. The video focuses on the Great Mosque of al-Nouri and its leaning minaret, al-Hadba, designed by ADD Architects. Reconstruction is expected to be completed by 2024, and the project was previously documented in a photo exhibition at the Venice Architecture Biennale. The initiative also includes educational and cultural programs to support Mosul's population.

Key facts

  • UNESCO launched Revive the Spirit of Mosul in 2018.
  • Funding of $105.5 million came mainly from UAE and EU.
  • 80% of Mosul's old city was destroyed during Daesh occupation (2014-2017).
  • The Great Mosque of al-Nouri and its minaret al-Hadba are being reconstructed.
  • ADD Architects designed the reconstruction.
  • Reconstruction completion is expected in 2024.
  • A photo exhibition at the Venice Architecture Biennale documented the project.
  • The initiative includes education and cultural opportunities for residents.

Entities

Institutions

  • UNESCO
  • ADD Architects
  • Venice Architecture Biennale

Locations

  • Mosul
  • Iraq
  • Emirati Arabi Uniti
  • UE
  • Venezia

Sources