The Rise from Ruins (Redevelopment of Hosh Al-Baieaa)

The Rise from Ruins redevelops Hosh Al-Baieaa in Mosul by restoring historic churches, heritage buildings, and the commercial strip damaged during ISIS occupation, while preserving its multicultural and Christian identity. The project balances heritage conservation with sustainable urban design to promote urban coexistence and unity.
Share on facebook
Facebook
Share on twitter
Twitter
Share on linkedin
LinkedIn

Designer(s) : Basma Yasir Hazim Bazoee

University : Tishk International University 

Tutor(s) : Seema Alfais 

Project Description

The Rise from Ruins is a project that focuses on the redevelopment of Hosh Al-Baieaa and Suq Al-Shaareen, a historic urban heritage area in Mosul city that dates back centuries. The site includes four ancient churches, one of which originated in the 7th century, along with heritage houses, a school, and a traditional commercial strip. The area suffered severe destruction during the ISIS occupation of Mosul between 2014 and 2017.

The project aims to preserve the historical, religious, and cultural significance of the site, with special emphasis on protecting the Christian identity that has long contributed to the formation of Mosul’s fabric. Redevelopment is intended to revive the area as an active neighborhood and a destination for cultural tourism, supporting economic recovery, increasing historical and social awareness, and strengthening coexistence.

A key concept of the design is urban coexistence, expressed through pedestrian connections linking churches and mosques as a symbol of unity among religions. Architecturally, Hosh Al-Baieaa reflects a rich mixture of Syriac, Byzantine, and Assyrian influences that can be seen in stone carvings, materials, arched ceilings, and religious elements.

To improve environmental quality within the dense urban fabric, the design introduces green spaces, courtyards, and shaded walkways. The project carefully balances heritage conservation with contemporary urban needs by reusing existing materials, integrating modern infrastructure, supporting resilience, and sustainable urban regeneration.