By The Amargi Staff
In the heart of Kurdistan, ancient villages, historic mosques, and centuries-old manuscripts are vanishing due to war, neglect, and modernization. From the endangered **Erbil Citadel**, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to the **Duhok rock carvings** that are fading due to environmental damage, Kurdistan’s cultural identity is at risk of being lost forever.
War, Urbanization, and Neglect: The Three Threats
According to **The Kurdish Heritage Foundation**, over 60% of historical sites in Kurdistan have been damaged due to war, neglect, or urbanization. The rapid expansion of cities like **Sulaimaniyah and Erbil** has resulted in the demolition of old neighborhoods to make way for new infrastructure.
“If we don’t act now, Kurdistan’s history will exist only in books, not in our cities.” – Dr. Hiwa Osman, Kurdish historian
The Iraqi and Kurdish regional governments have been criticized for failing to preserve these landmarks, while activists argue that economic interests often override cultural preservation efforts.
📺 Watch: The Decline of Kurdish Heritage
Restoration Efforts and Local Heroes
Despite the threats, several groups and individuals are fighting to protect Kurdish heritage:
- The Kurdistan Institute of Heritage: A nonprofit documenting and restoring historical sites.
- Local villagers: In **Akre**, locals have started community-led restoration of ancient homes.
- International archaeologists: Collaboration with universities to document and digitally preserve sites.
One of the most ambitious projects is the **digital reconstruction of the Erbil Citadel**, using 3D scanning technology to restore lost details. But funding remains a major challenge.
🎙️ Podcast: Saving Kurdistan’s Past
Listen to our latest podcast where Kurdish archaeologists discuss the challenges of preserving cultural landmarks.
What Can Be Done?
Experts recommend several steps to prevent further loss:
- Government investment in **heritage preservation funds**
- Inclusion of **Kurdish history in school curriculums**
- Partnerships with **international conservation organizations**
- Use of **technology like 3D mapping and virtual reality**
But ultimately, it will require a **collective effort from the Kurdish people** to ensure that their heritage is not erased.
💬 What historical sites in Kurdistan do you think need urgent protection? Share your thoughts in the comments.
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