Blue Shield signs to strengthen protection of heritage sites across Iraq
Across Iraq, heritage sites are receiving a new layer of protection: the Blue Shield emblem, an international symbol safeguarding cultural property during conflict.
Led by the Nineveh Antiquities and Heritage Inspectorate, with Bytna Foundation and students from Al-Noor University, this effort highlights the power of local partnerships and youth engagement in protecting heritage #ForThePeople.
As cultural heritage continues to face heightened risks during periods of tension and conflict, Blue Shield signs are now being installed across archaeological and heritage sites in Iraq, a visible and powerful step toward strengthening the protection of cultural property.
Protecting Mosul’s rehabilitated landmarks
The first phase in Mosul has covered several key landmarks, including:
- al-Nuri Mosque
- al-Nuri Mosque Museum
- al-Hadhba Minaret
- al-Tahira Church
- Sulaiman al-Sayigh House
- Ziada House
- Mosul Museum
- Adad Gate
- al-Tutunji House
- Bytna Foundation for Culture, Arts and Heritage
Several of these sites, including from al-Nuri Mosque and al-Hadhba Minaret to al-Tahira Church, Sulaiman al-Sayigh House, and Ziada House, have been rehabilitated with UNESCO’s support, reflecting ongoing efforts to restore and protect Iraq’s cultural heritage.
Blue Shield signs to strengthen protection of heritage sites across Iraq
The Blue Shield emblem is internationally recognized as a symbol dedicated to safeguarding cultural heritage, especially in times of conflict. Its placement on historic sites serves both as a protective marker and as a reminder of the universal responsibility to preserve humanity’s shared heritage.
“The installation of the Blue Shield emblem complements ongoing efforts to safeguard cultural heritage, particularly in times when such protection becomes even more critical. Protecting these sites is essential not only for Iraq, but for humanity as a whole.”
Rwaid Al-Leyla, Director of the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage in Nineveh, noted:
“Placing the Blue Shield emblem is an important step in strengthening the protection of our heritage sites and raising awareness of their universal value. These landmarks represent the identity and history of Mosul, and their preservation is a shared responsibility.”
Alexandros Makarigakis, UNESCO Representative to Iraq remarked: “The installation of the Blue Shield emblem complements ongoing efforts to safeguard cultural heritage, particularly in times when such protection becomes even more critical. Protecting these sites is essential not only for Iraq, but for humanity as a whole.”
Partnershihp
In Mosul, UNESCO’s flagship initiative “Revive the Spirit of Mosul” covers a number of sites rehabilitated recently. The effort is being led by the Nineveh Antiquities and Heritage Inspectorate, in cooperation with the Bytna Foundation for Culture, Arts and Heritage, and students from the Department of Archaeological Tourism at Al-Noor University, underscoring the essential role of local institutions and young people in safeguarding heritage, particularly in challenging times.
Saker Al-Zakaria, Founder of Bytna Foundation for Culture, Arts and Heritage, added:
“This effort reflects the strength of local partnerships and the energy of young people working together to protect heritage. It is about building a sense of responsibility and connection to these sites for future generations.”
Looking ahead
Further steps are planned to expand the placement of Blue Shield signs to additional archaeological and heritage sites across Iraq, reinforcing a nationwide commitment to protecting cultural heritage for future generations.
Photo on frontpage: In Mosul, the emblem now marks several landmarks restored through UNESCO’s #ReviveTheSpiritOfMosul, from al-Nuri Mosque and al-Hadhba Minaret to al-Tahira Church and historic heritage houses. Source: UNESCO. Image on this page: Blue Shield logo. Source: UNESCO.
