Enhancing Capacities for the Conservation of World Heritage Sites in Iraq

Within the framework of the UNESCO/Netherlands Fund-in-Trust project “Strengthening capacities for the documentation and conservation of Properties on the List of World Heritage in Danger in Iraq”, a training workshop was organized by the World Heritage Centre and the UNESCO Office in Iraq, at the Erbil Citadel from 29 April to 8 May 2025. This workshop brought together nineteen participants, including representatives from the Iraqi State Board of Antiquities and Heritage (SBAH), managers of World Heritage sites, engineers from the Samarra Governorate, as well as archaeologists and geologists, fostering a collaborative and interdisciplinary learning environment.

The training, which was carried out in collaboration with experts from CRAterre – the International Centre for Earthen Architecture, aimed to enhance national capacities in the conservation, protection and management of World Heritage properties in Iraq, with a particular emphasis on earthen architecture. The programme offered a balanced integration of theoretical lectures and practical fieldwork at a designated pilot site within the Citadel. Participants received comprehensive in-depth instruction on heritage values, site management strategies, inventory methodologies, and diagnostic techniques for the conservation of earthen archaeological sites.

© Mr Waleed Khalid Qaddoori

Practical sessions focused on documentation, assessment of damage, and conservation planning for ancient masonry and earthen architecture. Participants gained hands-on experience working with various types of clay and learned how to select appropriate, cost-effective mixtures for producing high-quality mud bricks.

The workshop concluded with participant-led presentations, showcasing the application of their newly acquired knowledge to context-specific conservation challenges at the site. This approach contributed to strengthening communication and coordination among professionals committed to safeguarding Iraq’s cultural heritage.

This initiative was made possible through the generous support of the Government of the Netherlands, provided through the UNESCO/Netherlands Funds-in-Trust (NFiT).