Masqanta Church Rehabilitation Efforts Underway in Mosul’s Old City

The Technical Deputy Governor of Nineveh, Omar Namik Al-Moula, recently conducted an on-site inspection of the ongoing rehabilitation work at the historic Masqanta Church (Chaldean), located in the Al-Mayasa neighbourhood in the southern part of Mosul’s Old City. He was accompanied by the Inspector of Antiquities and Heritage of Nineveh, Ruwad Muwafaq, and the Head of the Heritage Unit, Ali Salem.

Upon their arrival, the delegation was received by Dr. Ali Najm Al-Jubouri, the head of the church’s archaeological committee. Dr. Al-Jubouri provided a comprehensive briefing on the various phases of the rehabilitation project. The work is being carried out in accordance with approved conservation and restoration guidelines to preserve the historical and cultural value of the site.

The Masqanta Church holds significant historical importance, dating back to the late 12th century and early 13th century AD. Over the centuries, it has undergone several restoration efforts, the most notable being during the tenure of Patriarch Joseph VI (Audo), who renewed the church between 1849 and 1854.

Deputy Governor Al-Moula commended the efforts of the General Authority for Antiquities and Heritage, the Nineveh Inspectorate of Antiquities and Heritage, and the workers involved in the project. He emphasised his unwavering support for the preservation of Mosul’s rich cultural and historical fabric, particularly in the city’s ancient quarters.

The rehabilitation of the Masqanta Church is part of broader efforts to revive Mosul’s Old City, which suffered extensive damage. Projects such as this aim to restore the architectural and cultural essence of the city, reinforcing its status as a beacon of Iraq’s historical diversity.

Source: Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities