Restoration of 850-year-old Bagmerne Mosque in Duhok nears completion

DUHOK, Iraq — Restoration work on the historic Bagmerne Mosque in the village of Bagmerne, north of Duhok, has passed 80 percent completion, according to the archaeologist leading the project. Kivan Ihsan, who is overseeing the work, said the mosque is set to reopen to visitors, tourists and heritage researchers in the near future. Based on available archaeological evidence, the mosque dates to the 12th century during the Atabeg period, making it more than 850 years old and one of the oldest historic mosques in the region. The restoration is being carried out on the initiative of local villagers in coordination with the Duhok Museum Directorate and under the supervision of archaeological specialists. The structure sustained partial damage during military clashes in 1961, although limited modifications were made to its northern wall and flooring in earlier periods. The complex includes a large prayer hall, a historic water system based on clay pipes and a qanat, and period health facilities that reflect village life of the era. The project aims to preserve the mosque's historic fabric and restore its architectural details. No specific reopening date has been announced.