Kirkuk: The head of the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage, Ali Obeid Shalgham, met with a representative from the Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency (TIKA) to discuss the mechanisms for initiating a project focused on maintaining, restoring, and rehabilitating the Green Dome in Kirkuk Citadel. This initiative underscores the Board's dedication to safeguarding historical landmarks and preserving Iraq's cultural heritage.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the meeting, attended by the Director General of the Department of Public Heritage, Dr. Muayad Haitham Rasen, involved discussions on the technical and scientific procedures required for the project. Coordination mechanisms between the Board's specialized teams and the Turkish side were also on the agenda. The discussions covered the necessary technical studies and surveys, and prioritized interventions to ensure that the restoration work adheres to scientific principles and established standards for the preservation of antiquities and heritage.
The head of the Board highlighted that Kirkuk Citadel is more than just an archaeological site; it is a testament to Iraq's rich history and the diversity of its civilizations over the years. He emphasized the significance of preserving its architectural and historical components, aiming to restore it to a status that reflects its cultural importance.
The Authority is actively seeking to expand cooperation with international institutions and organizations that specialize in restoration. By leveraging modern technical expertise and experience, the Authority aims to protect and preserve archaeological and heritage sites for future generations. The restoration of the Green Dome is part of a broader strategy by the General Authority for Antiquities and Heritage to rehabilitate historical landmarks across various governorates, thereby preserving the architectural and cultural identity of Iraqi archaeological sites. This approach aims to enhance their cultural and touristic appeal, restoring these historical monuments to their former prominence.