We talk to Alaa Alameri, Professor of Modern and Contemporary History at the College of Arts at Mustansiriyah University. Alaa held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at Newcastle University. His project is titled Oral History in Iraq and is under the supervision of Professor Graham Smith.

Prof Alaa at Newcastle University

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am Alaa Al-Ameri, Professor of Modern and Contemporary History at the College of Arts, Mustansiriyah University, and a researcher specializing in modern and contemporary Japanese history, Japanese education, historical research methodologies, and the philosophy of history. I earned my PhD in 2014 from the University of Baghdad, with a dissertation on The Role of the Liberal Democratic Party in Japan’s Reconstruction (1955–1973). I have held research fellowships at the University of Tokyo (2012), Chiba University (2022), and Newcastle University (2025). 

I also held several academic and administrative positions, including serving multiple terms as Head of the History Department at the College of Arts, Mustansiriyah University. I was also the Rapporteur of the Committee for Updating History Curricula at the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. Additionally and played a key role in coordinating and implementing academic agreements between Mustansiriyah University and Chiba University, Newcastle University, and the French Institute for the Near East. 

I participated in numerous international conferences and has published research in his areas of expertise. I have also contributed to organising international academic workshops, including the Iraqi-Japanese International Conference, now in its fifteenth edition, and a workshop on oral history and its integration into Iraqi academia, alongside conferences on national identity and modern historical methodologies. 

Beyond academia, I believe that scholars in the humanities should have practical laboratories to apply their ideas for the benefit of society. Based on this vision, I founded Al-Qiyam Private Schools in Baghdad in 2015, an educational initiative adopting Japan’s Tokkatsu system, which emphasises character building and life skills development. I see these schools as more than just an educational institution; they serve as a practical space for implementing his ideas on educational reform, bridging academic research with real-world application to drive sustainable change. 

I have received numerous awards and honours in recognition of my academic and educational contributions. I continue to develop educational and research projects that enhance the role of knowledge in shaping society. 

Tell us about your project. 

Mainstream academic historical studies have long relied almost exclusively on written documents, often sidelining or undervaluing oral narratives, which are typically viewed as unreliable or lacking objectivity. This approach becomes especially problematic in contexts marked by prolonged conflict and weak institutional documentation, as is the case in Iraq—a country that, for decades, has experienced wars, rapid political shifts, sanctions, civil unrest, terrorism, and a severe institutional vacuum in formal documentation and archival systems. As a result, significant gaps persist in the national historical record, with no comprehensive archive capturing the lived experiences of individuals and communities in real-time. 

In such settings, oral memory emerges as an indispensable source for understanding Iraq’s social, cultural, and political history, especially when it comes to marginalised groups: women, peasants, workers, ethnic and religious minorities, and victims of violence—many of whom remain excluded from official historical accounts. The absence of their voices threatens to erase vital layers of Iraq’s living history. 

This guide adopts a methodological vision that seeks to restore the value of oral history as a scientific tool for documenting collective memory and to bridge the gap between academia and society. It advocates for the integration of oral history into university institutions by developing a comprehensive academic curriculum, training researchers in oral history methods, and establishing oral archives that preserve Iraq’s diverse historical experience before it is lost to time or the passing of those who lived it. In doing so, the guide contributes to reconstructing national memory and promoting epistemic justice in the narration of Iraq’s contemporary history. 

How was your Visiting Scholarship experience in the UK? 

It was an essential and distinguished academic and scientific journey that significantly contributed to strengthening and developing the relationship between Mustansiriyah University and Newcastle University, resulting in the creation of a new educational curriculum and its introduction into the Iraqi academy for the first time. 

What were the main benefits of your scholarship? 

The preparation of an academic guide and curriculum to be adopted in history departments within Iraqi academia. In title (Oral History in Iraq: A Methodological and Practical Guide for Academic Research and University Training).

What was the main highlight of your scholarship? 

It was exceptional and fruitful in every aspect, particularly in terms of the academic experience I gained from a prestigious university, which I will certainly carry forward to my current university. 

What were the main things you learnt from your Host Institution? 

A robust spirit of support and scientific collaboration from colleagues, combined with the development of a global research approach. I have gained enough experience to employ the oral history method in academic research and to train students in applying this new research approach. 

How has the scholarship helped you in your work in Iraq?  

The fellowship plays a crucial role in enhancing research and historical writing techniques in Iraq, benefiting individuals and leading to the creation of a guide for academic research in oral history for the entire Iraqi academic community. 

What will you do to continue your research in Iraq? 

The subject has been introduced as a course for master’s students and will be offered as a joint programme between Al-Mustansiriyah University and Newcastle University. It has also been included as a topic within the historical research methodology curriculum for undergraduate students. Furthermore, an international symposium on the subject will be held on 16 October at Newcastle University. 

We talk to Mustafa Yahya Faraj, an archaeologist with the Iraqi State Board of Antiquities and Heritage. Mustafa held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at UCL. His project is titled Nineveh Gates: Challenges, Sustainability and Strengthening Community Relations in Mosul and is under the supervision of Professor Mark Altaweel.

Mustafa with Prof Eleanor Robson at UCL

Tell us a little about yourself.

I’m an archaeologist from Mosul, Iraq. I hold both a Bachelor’s and a Master’s degree in Ancient Archaeology from the University of Mosul, and I have been working with the State Board of Antiquities and Heritage of Iraq (SBAH) since 2013. I have worked at some of Iraq’s most significant heritage sites, including Nineveh, Nimrud, and the Mosul Museum, where I’ve been actively involved in excavation, restoration, and emergency rescue projects. These experiences have also allowed me to collaborate with esteemed institutions such as the University of Mosul, the Smithsonian Institution, and the University of Heidelberg.

From 2023 to 2025, I was part of—and helped lead—the restoration project of the Mar Toma Syriac Orthodox Church in the old city of Mosul. This initiative, supported by the ALIPH Foundation and L’Œuvre d’Orient, aimed to revive one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. I’m also passionate about documenting historical buildings and sites, especially in Mosul before and after the ISIS occupation. My work includes extensive photographic and written documentation to help preserve cultural memory and identity.

I have completed several international training programs, including a rescue archaeology course at the Iraqi Institute for the Conservation of Antiquities and Heritage (IICAH) in Erbil, and courses on archaeological entrepreneurship offered by Koç University and the University of Bologna. In 2025, I was honored to serve as a Visiting Scholar at the Institute of Archaeology – UCL, where I conducted research on the social, economic, and cultural impact of the Gates of Nineveh on the local community.

I am a member of ICOMOS and ISCARSAH, and throughout my career, I have received over fifteen certificates and letters of appreciation from both Iraqi and international institutions in recognition of my contributions to heritage preservation.

Tell us more about your project.

My research project focuses on the Gates of Nineveh from three key aspects. First, it involves assessing their current condition, documenting violations, and reviewing previous excavation rescue and restoration efforts after 2017. Second, it explores sustainable approaches to the conservation and management of the gates. Third, it examines the relationship between the gates and the local community, how people interact with these structures and perceive them as symbols of heritage and identity.

How was your Visiting Scholarship experience in the UK?

My Visiting Scholarship experience in the UK was truly transformative, both academically and personally. I had the honor of joining the Institute of Archaeology at University College London (UCL) as a Visiting Scholar, where I focused on researching the Gates of Nineveh. This opportunity allowed me to engage with outstanding researchers, and explore the British Museum and UCL’s extensive library collections.

Living in the UK gave me the chance to learn about the country’s rich heritage and preservation practices. I visited several historic sites including Avebury, King Richard III Visitor Centre, and the city of Bath. These visits offered hands-on insight into how archaeological sites are presented, protected, and integrated into public life. I was especially impressed by the museum interpretation techniques, the integration of digital media in storytelling, and the urban planning efforts to preserve architectural identity in historic cities like Bath.

Equally important were the cultural experiences exploring London’s communities, visiting monuments and landmarks, and building friendships with people from around the world. These moments broadened my perspective and strengthened my belief in the importance of international collaboration in cultural heritage protection.

The knowledge, skills, and inspiration I gained during this scholarship are already influencing my work in Iraq, especially in documentation and site management. I am grateful to the British Institute for the Study of Iraq (BISI) and Nahrain Network for making this journey possible, and I look forward to building on this experience in future heritage projects.

What were the main benefits of your scholarship?

I was given a remarkable opportunity to start conduct research on the Gates of Nineveh at the Institute of Archaeology – UCL, focusing on four key aspects. First, the study the current condition of the gates and the violations they have been subjected. Second, it explored methods of archaeological site management and sustainability, with the aim of adopted these practices to the Gates of Nineveh. Third, it investigated the relationship between the gates and the local community, considering them as symbols of cultural identity, tourist attractions, and potential agents of community healing in Mosul’s post-conflict context. Finally, the research involved the creation of a new multi-layered map of the Gates of Nineveh, based on aerial and satellite imagery. This map includes three layers: the first from Royal Air Force (RAF) aerial photographs taken in the 1920s, the second from CORONA satellite images dating to the 1960s, and the third from recent satellite imagery, allowing for a comparative analysis of the gates condition over the past 100 years. Without this generous scholarship, it would not have been possible to carry out the research in such depth and from these important perspectives.

What was the main highlight of your scholarship?

The main benefits of my scholarship included access to academic resources at UCL and the other institutions, as well as the opportunity to engage with leading experts in archaeology and heritage preservation. I visited archaeological sites and museums across the UK to learn new methods of site management and sustainability, with the aim of adopted these practices to the Gates of Nineveh. The experience also allowed me to expand my professional network and gain valuable insights into the protection and promotion of cultural heritage.

What were the main things you learnt from your Host Institution?

From my host institution and supervisor, I learned advanced methods of interpretation and heritage management. I gained a deeper understanding of conservation and promotion strategies for archaeological sites, enhanced my academic research skills, and learned how UK institutions collaborate with local and international partners on heritage projects.

How has the scholarship helped you in your work in Iraq?

The scholarship has significantly strengthened my ability to contribute to the preservation of Iraq’s heritage. It equipped me with sustainable methods for managing archaeological sites, which I can apply in Mosul. Additionally, it broadened my perspective on how heritage can serve as a powerful tool for reconciliation, education, and economic development.

What will you do to continue your research in Iraq?

I will continue my research by collecting field data from the Nineveh Gates, analysing satellite imagery, and interviewing local residents about the cultural significance of the gates. I plan to publish my results and contribute to national and international discussions on the preservation and future of Nineveh’s heritage.

We talk to Dr. Ahmed A. Al-Imarah, Professor of Higher Education Management at theUniversity of Kufa. Dr. Ahmed held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at the University of Oxford, Department of Education. Dr. Ahmed’s project is titled Iraq’s Higher Education Cultural Heritage Curricula and is under the supervision of Professor Nigel Fancourt.

Dr Ahmed at UCL

What were the main benefits of your scholarship?

• The scholarship provided the opportunity to systematically map, assess, and enhance cultural heritage curricula in Iraq’s higher education system.
• Collaboration with Oxford University academics, particularly Professor Nigel Fancourt, led to developing a research proposal on how universities can support cultural heritage.
• Access to Oxford’s scientific references and academic resources significantly contributed to advancing research.
• Participation in weekly seminars, lectures, and networking with faculty and PhD students expanded academic skills and research perspectives.
• Visiting museums deepened the understanding of tangible heritage and its role in fostering social cohesion and cultural appreciation.

What was the main highlight of your scholarship?

• A key highlight was the development of a collaborative research plan with Oxford University staff to address gaps in cultural heritage education. This included examining how universities can support cultural heritage and engaging in meaningful discussions about its societal impact.
• Another significant moment was delivering a joint lecture with Professor Fancourt at the Iraqi Embassy in London, discussing opportunities for collaboration between Iraqi and British universities.

What were the main things you learned from your host institution?

• Insight into curriculum design mechanisms across different educational systems, with a focus on improving Iraq’s cultural heritage education.
• The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in cultural heritage studies.
• Effective methods for integrating cultural heritage themes into university programs to promote social cohesion and national diversity.
• The value of museums in preserving history and fostering a shared cultural identity.
• Best practices for conducting and publishing academic research, particularly in underexplored areas like Iraqi universities and their role in cultural heritage.

How has the scholarship helped you in your work in Iraq?

• It has provided a foundation for enhancing cultural heritage curricula in Iraqi universities by incorporating global best practices.
• The collaborative research proposal with Oxford University will contribute to addressing gaps in Iraq’s higher education sector.
• Connections established during the visit will facilitate future academic partnerships and knowledge exchange between Iraqi and British institutions.
• The insights gained from museum visits and academic discussions will be applied to promote awareness of Iraq’s tangible and intangible heritage.
• The discussions at the Iraqi Embassy contributed to shaping higher education policies by identifying areas for cooperation between Iraqi and UK universities.

What will you do to continue your research in Iraq?

• Implement the findings from the research project into the cultural heritage curricula at the University of Kufa.
• Continue collaboration with Oxford University through the extended university ID, allowing further access to academic resources.
• Organize a training program on global research methodologies for Iraqi professors.
• Work on publishing research on the role of Iraqi universities in supporting cultural heritage.
• Promote interdisciplinary approaches to cultural heritage studies and encourage faculty members to integrate these topics into their teaching.
• Advocate for academic partnerships between Iraqi and British universities, focusing on faculty exchange, student opportunities, and research collaborations.

Dr Ahmed at UCL

On February 10, 2025, the Iraqi Embassy in London hosted a scientific symposium focused on strengthening academic collaboration between Iraqi and British universities. The event brought together embassy officials, the Iraqi Cultural Attaché, and esteemed professors from various British universities to explore opportunities for excellence in higher education.

The symposium featured insightful discussions led by Nahrein Network – BISI Visiting Scholar, Professor Ahmed A. Al-Imarah and his Research Supervisor, Professor Nigel Fancourt from the University of Oxford. Their joint lecture highlighted key topics such as common challenges in higher education, opportunities for development, and essential elements for successful university partnerships.

A major outcome of the event was the proposal of four priority areas for collaboration:

• Enhancing academic culture
• Hosting academic visitors
• Inviting postgraduate students
• Sharing unique research data

The discussions emphasized that careful planning is crucial to ensuring these collaborations benefit both parties. Moreover, the success of partnerships should be measured by tangible outcomes, rather than simply signing agreements. While challenges exist, they can be overcome through strategic cooperation and shared commitment.

This symposium aligns with recent government initiatives to strengthen partnerships between Iraqi and British universities, following the Iraqi Prime Minister’s visit to the UK. The recommendations from the event will be submitted to the Iraqi Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research, contributing to long-term academic and research collaboration.

Dr. Bzhar Othman Ahmed, a history lecturer at Soran University in Soran City in Erbil, has been awarded a Nahrein Network – BISI Visiting Scholarship at the London School of Economics Middle East Centre (LSE-MEC) for his research project, The Work and Heritage of the Jews of Koya (1918-1951). His research focuses on reviving the historical trades and cultural heritage of the Jewish community in Koya, including traditional occupations such as carpentry, jewelry making, tailoring, dyeing, and clothing design.

As part of his scholarship, Dr. Bzhar is utilizing archives from The National Archives and the British Library, which hold significant records on the Jewish community of Koya and Iraq. His initiative aims to create a digitized collection of archival records, preserving and shedding light on the rich history of Koya and its Jewish heritage.

On Thursday, February 27, 2025, Dr. Bzhar delivered a presentation at LSE-MEC on his latest research topic, The Economic Life of Jews in Koya (1918-1951). The seminar was attended by scholars from various universities and academic institutions, including the Dean and Deputy Dean of LSE-MEC, researchers, counselors, and members of the British Institute for the Study of Iraq (BISI). Notable attendees included Prof. Dr. Erica Hunter, Dr. Noorah Al Gailani, and Joan Porter MacIver.

Dr. Bzhar began his presentation by introducing himself as a Nahrein Network – BISI Visiting Scholar and providing an overview of his home institution, Soran University. He then shared updates and outcomes from his latest research. The findings from this project will soon be published in two articles, offering unprecedented insights into the economic life and Jewish heritage of Koya from 1918 to 1951.

Through this scholarship, Dr. Bzhar’s work is not only uncovering a largely overlooked aspect of Iraq’s diverse cultural past but also ensuring that the heritage of Koya’s Jewish community is preserved for future generations.

We talk to Dr Salah Al-Jabri, Professor of Philosophy, University of Baghdad. Dr Salah Al-Jabr held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at UCL. Dr Salah Al-Jabri’s project is titled Dark Heritage and is under the supervision of Dr. Beverly Butler.

Tell us a little about yourself.

I am Salah Al-Jabri, Professor of Philosophy in the Department of Philosophy, College of Arts of University of Baghdad, the holder of the UNESCO Chair for Genocide Prevention Studies in the Islamic World, and the former Dean of the College of Arts of University of Baghdad. My interest in the topic of genocide, atrocities and crimes against humanity arose from the suffering and pain that my own family suffered during dictatorship due to the oppressive practices, physical liquidation, and deliberate destruction of their property by the totalitarian Baathist regime in Iraq before 2003.

The security services of Saddam Hussein’s regime killed two of my brothers arrested my parents and sisters, and demolished and burned our house. From these tragedies my interest in turbulent heritage arose, especially genocide, places of pain, and the memory of pain. This interest was embodied in attempts to explain what has happened, preserve the memory of pain, measure the extent of the damage and suffering to which my family and thousands of other Iraqi families were exposed, and the extent to which transitional justice and reparation were achieved. Then the idea of documenting and preserving these crimes developed through blogging, museum exhibition, technological displays, and others. Through my personal effort, determination, and perseverance, University of Baghdad obtained the UNESCO Chair for Genocide Prevention Studies, and I was chosen to chair it and to implement its programs.

Dr Salah in front of the Wilkins Building

Tell us more about your project.

Difficult Heritage is a concept which is synonymous to heritage that hurts, heritage of atrocity and places of pain or shame. Difficult heritage sites are places and institutions “that stand as legacy to painful periods in history, massacre and genocide sites, places related to former penal institutions, prisoners of war, battle fields and many more.” Difficult heritage site management is a structured activity which supports a meaningful and holistic experience for visitors within the context of diverse and complex services scopes. The aim of this study is to increase the understanding of how difficult heritage of the past is expressed within museum management in UK and apply it in Iraq.

In this research project, I aim looking to examine models and best practices in developing collections for and displaying difficult heritage (especially genocide) in the UK to convey to Iraq. This involves field visiting and analyzing War and Holocaust Museums and Centers and Institutions on Genocide Studies and talking to UK experts on best practices for developing collections and curating exhibitions involving difficult heritage and genocide. In the second part of my research, I will analyze and contextualize those strategies and ways for developing genocide collections and curating genocide exhibitions in Iraq.

This study has been supported by important Iraqi institutions: the State Board of Archeology and Heritage, the Directorate of Mass Graves in the Iraqi Martyrs Foundation. They have recognized the need to establish museums for the difficult heritage in southern and northern Iraq to preserve the Iraqi memory in the marshes, Kurdistan and cemeteries and all kinds of difficult heritage, whether pre or post ISIS.

Prof Salah with Prof Eleanor Robson at UCL

What was your Visiting Scholarship experience?

The project of documenting and displaying difficult heritage in Iraq is one of my current jobs, which I am studying and developing by studying important international models, especially models of war museums, difficult heritage, science and art museums in UK. In this context, the research fellowship project was kindly funded by the Nahrein Network, an institution that has served Iraqi heritage, history, and culture for years.

This visiting scholarship opened the gates of London and Oxford, which were closed to me before. I visited London museums such as the Imperial War Museum, the British Museum and the Art Museum. I also visited the city of Oxford, its university and its museums such as the Science Museum, the Oxford University Museum, and other heritage places. I benefited greatly from this fellowship in reformulating and enhancing my ideas, in addition to being acquainted with methods of documenting difficult heritage through museum display, photography, video, audio recording, as well as the use of advanced display technology.

What are your future plans now that you are back in Iraq?

I am currently completing and developing my research, benefiting from my visits to University College London and the University of Oxford, and from my visits to museums in London and Oxford. I will employ the amount of research sources I collected from the University College London Library, and other libraries in London and Oxford, to develop the theoretical structure of the research, achieve the research hypotheses, enrich its results, and provide hypotheses for other new research. I will also use the information I obtained from my visits to museums in London and Oxford to develop the practical dimension of the research, especially related to museum display methods, display technology, and the use of sound and artistic effects to reconstruct a poignant memory of past events, such as those photographs used in the Imperial War Museum in London.

The books and research I obtained from the University College London library helped me to develop my research, plan other research, and design workshops on difficult heritage to be held in the College of Arts and in other Iraqi universities. There are other work projects that I am looking to launch, such as a project of documenting the difficult heritage of the marshes in southern Iraq. I was also inspired by my visit to University College London and the London museums and libraries, the idea of holding an international conference under the title: Painful Memory in Iraq and the Islamic World. I actually presented the idea of the conference to the university and received approval, and the conference will be held next November.

Prof Salah Al-Jabri, Prof Beverly Butler and Dr Mehiyar Kathem at UCL

We talk to Nawar Ihsan, Antiquities Restorer at The Iraq Museum. Nawar held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at The British Museum with Dr Paul Collins.

Tell us a little about yourself.

My name is Nawar Ihsan. I come from a family interested in heritage and art. My grandfather was a sculptor and had turned his house into a museum. I have been working in the field of Iraqi heritage for more than twelve years. I worked as director of the Iraqi Fashion Museum. I also designed historical and heritage costumes and had artistic works such as paintings from Iraqi heritage. I moved to work in the Iraqi Museum, where I was the artistic director for the museum halls, and then my final stop was the restoration and maintenance of antiquities. My learning was at the hands of Italian experts, and I gained experience through my work practice.

I also have many projects in the field, where I carried out technical maintenance for the most important monuments displayed in the Iraq Museum, such as winged bulls, Assyrian murals, the wall of the Temple of Uruk, Sumerian urns, and many others. Also, on a more comprehensive level, I carried out artistic maintenance. The entire museum collection is in the Basra Cultural Museum, which contains complementary parts, as well as the Maysan Museum, and work is underway on the Mosul Museum collection. I also worked as a project coordinator between the SBAH and heritage organisations such as the Safina Projects. I have held several workshops and training courses to develop the skills of museum workers, some of which were in cooperation with the Italian Embassy at the Italian Center in Baghdad in addition to the Basra Cultural Museum as the opening of the maintenance laboratory, and others in the ancient city of Babylon with the establishment of a workshop near the Lion of Babylon.

Nawar Ihsan at The British Museum

Tell us more about your project.

My project on museums in general and the Iraqi Museum in particular is titled: Iraq Museum Marketing through the Application of Sustainable Development Goals. My research aims to develop the reality of museums in Iraq in proportion to the significance of the civilisation they contain and to activate their social and educational role to achieve sustainability in heritage, learning, and cultural tourism. The research methodology was a comparison between the Iraqi Museum and museums in the United Kingdom to identify strengths and weaknesses. The research was hosted by Dr. Paul Collins, Keeper of the Middle East, in the British Museum. The research involved identifying the methods and policies followed by museums, such as the methods of display, lighting, designs, visitor movement, services provided by the museum, and its educational and social role. During my stay in the UK, I visited more than 26 museums in London and other cities, and also met with a number of department directors at the British Museum. This enabled me to form a broad and comprehensive impression of museum management in the UK.

How was your Visiting Scholarship experience in the UK?

The Nahrein Network and the British Institute for the Study of Iraq provided me with wonderful experiences, allowing me to benefit from the expertise of leading institutions. As the subject of the research revolves around museums, and the United Kingdom contains a large number of diverse museums, the opportunity to host me at the British Museum was an honour for me, as it is the museum that attracts most visitors. It is also a great opportunity to get to know experts and innovators and build knowledge in this field of work. It is certain that getting to know the cities and lifestyles in the United Kingdom had a beautiful impact on civilizational and cultural diversity.

Nawar Ihsan at UCL

What was the highlight of your trip?

I was able to achieve a lot within the short and quick visiting scholarship in London, including my lecture titled “Iraqi Heritage Between Recovery and Preservation” at UCL in collaboration with the Iraqi Embassy, attended by the Cultural Attaché and important figures from the Iraqi community in the UK. My presentation discussed the state of heritage in Iraq, its divisions, causes of loss, and how to protect it, while highlighting the role of the Iraqi Museum in preserving antiquities.

In addition, I had the great opportunity to attend a conference on social attraction in the city of Bristol, as its topic is considered an important part of the research that I am conducting. Another highlight was my trip to Oxford, hosted by Dr. Paul Collins, to see the Ashmolean Museum, which is considered the world’s first university museum and was distinguished by modern display methods and a great collection in the Mesopotamian Civilization section. I also visited Cambridge and experienced the Fitzwilliam Museum.

How will your scholarship help you with your research?

Travelling enables us to acquire and experience new cultures, let alone if it is specifically for conducting research in a country that is known for sustaining its culture and history. Through this scholarship, I was able to conduct field visits to several museums in London and other cities in the UK, which definitely helped me expand my knowledge and skills in a wide area of museum management. Using historical buildings in museums while intertwining modern interior styles was fascinating, and I hope to incorporate these contemporary methods into my research and my work back in Iraq.

Through participant observation at different museums, I learned a lot about the methods of dealing with visitors, and I understood the importance of museum layout and visitor movement within galleries. This is an extremely important matter for increasing visitor engagement and experience.

We talk to Dr Ali Naji Attiyah, Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Engineering, University of Kufa. Dr Ali Naji Attiyah held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at Bartlett School of Architecture, UCL. Dr Ali Naji Attiyah’s project is titled Intangible Heritage of Najaf and is under the supervision of Professor Edward Denison.

Tell us a little about yourself.

Dr Ali Naji with Prof Eleanor Robson at UCL

My name is Dr. Ali Naji Attiyah, I am an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Engineering in University of Kufa. I got a Ph.D. in Structural Engineering from University of Baghdad. My interest in cultural heritage started in 2003 when I worked as a consultant on the conservation of the Imam Ali shrine in Najaf City. I wrote a book titled the “Spiritual Values of the Holy Shrines Architecture”. I tried to explore the intangible values affected the traditional design of the shrines. I was appointed to be a member of the National Committee to inscribe Wadi Al-Salam Cemetery to the World Heritage List. For this I got training courses at the UNESCO Iraq Office on the protection and enhancement of tangible and intangible heritage. In 2019, I earned a grant of 30,000 GBP from Nahrein Network to document the heritage buildings in Kufa City.

Tell us more about your project.

The project aims to explore the interrelation between tangible and intangible cultural heritage to increase the awareness of people to cultural heritage. The proposed project briefly discusses the idea of the correlation between spirit and matter from the fact of that the strength of urban output is the product of its moral dimension. The historic centre of Najaf with its society and culture represents the treasure of knowledge and culture, a centre for science and human development. Hence, there is a need to keep all these values through revival of the historic part of the city. An approach will be presented and discussed with experts in UK to revive Najaf tangible cultural heritage in the historic centre of the city. The approach will depend on defining the intangible cultural heritage elements related to the buildings and old city fabric, which will arise the values imbedded inside the tangible heritage. Such values will increase the awareness of communities belong to Najaf to the importance of its cultural heritage.

What was the highlight of your trip?

A seminar was organized by Endangered Archaeology in the Middle East and North Africa EAMENA, which was based at the University of Oxford. I described the role of intangible cultural heritage in the revival of tangible heritage and he considered the historic City of Najaf as a case study, where the presentation title was: “Najaf, Iraq: Developing a Sustainable Approach to Threatened Heritage”.

The Nahrein Network – UCL and the British Institute for the Study of Iraq organized a symposium on the “Future of Najaf Cultural Heritage, A View on Sustainable Approach”. The seminar was a good opportunity to make use of the experience of visiting many British heritage cities such as Oxford and York. The comparison focused on the challenges faced by their heritage and are continued, because of the needs and development projects. However, the regulations written for the York City Council in the 1990s were briefly reviewed as they may be a good resource for the recently established Najaf Historic Center municipality.

The visit to the Cities of Oxford and York was very useful, as those cities keep their urban and architectural identity. The university buildings at Oxford were deep-rooted and survived for a hundred years and are attractive for visits of tourists. So, they are good examples of living heritage buildings, their academic function still works in the same traditions. Najaf’s old schools have the same cultural identity and can be attractive for tourism, where thousands of scientists lived and studied. The City of York’s heritage faced a lot of challenges since the late 1960s, when the need for development projects increased rapidly. Many similarities and differences as well can be seen between York and Najaf. For example, both cities receive millions of visitors annually and this issue adds pressure on their cultural heritage. The main difference can be seen in the living heritage, where this type of heritage has been practiced in Najaf for a hundred years and is threatened by the potential changes in the city buildings and alleys. But in the case of York, the main challenge is the archeological sites under the city, where the ruins of Romans and Vikings are the base of the buildings built later.

What was the highlight of your trip?

A seminar was organized by Endangered Archaeology in the Middle East and North Africa EAMENA, which was based at the University of Oxford. I described the role of intangible cultural heritage in the revival of tangible heritage and he considered the historic City of Najaf as a case study, where the presentation title was: “Najaf, Iraq: Developing a Sustainable Approach to Threatened Heritage”.

The Nahrein Network – UCL and the British Institute for the Study of Iraq organized a symposium on the “Future of Najaf Cultural Heritage, A View on Sustainable Approach”. The seminar was a good opportunity to make use of the experience of visiting many British heritage cities such as Oxford and York. The comparison focused on the challenges faced by their heritage and are continued, because of the needs and development projects. However, the regulations written for the York City Council in the 1990s were briefly reviewed as they may be a good resource for the recently established Najaf Historic Center municipality.

The visit to the Cities of Oxford and York was very useful, as those cities keep their urban and architectural identity. The university buildings at Oxford were deep-rooted and survived for a hundred years and are attractive for visits of tourists. So, they are good examples of living heritage buildings, their academic function still works in the same traditions. Najaf’s old schools have the same cultural identity and can be attractive for tourism, where thousands of scientists lived and studied. The City of York’s heritage faced a lot of challenges since the late 1960s, when the need for development projects increased rapidly. Many similarities and differences as well can be seen between York and Najaf. For example, both cities receive millions of visitors annually and this issue adds pressure on their cultural heritage. The main difference can be seen in the living heritage, where this type of heritage has been practiced in Najaf for a hundred years and is threatened by the potential changes in the city buildings and alleys. But in the case of York, the main challenge is the archeological sites under the city, where the ruins of Romans and Vikings are the base of the buildings built later.

Did you have any promising conversations or collaborations with colleagues at UCL or other institutions?

The first activity was the meeting with Dr. Eleanor Robson, the principal investigator of the Nahrein Network project at UCL. She encouraged visiting heritage cities in UK to have good experience in dealing with Iraq heritage.

Mrs. Macrae is administrating the archeology department in the City Council of York. Meeting with an expert holding such a position in a historical city was very useful as well. She mentioned that regulations were developed for the City Council in the 1990s and helped the city to keep its heritage. Recently, a new municipality was established in the historic part of Najaf, which is the first initiative step in Iraq. York City Council and its experience in managing historic cities can be a good example for the new Najaf municipality.

ArCHIAM, Centre for the Study of Architecture and Cultural Heritage of India, Arabia, and the Maghreb, is an interdisciplinary forum based at the University of Liverpool. Crossing traditional disciplinary boundaries, the Centre provides an exciting opportunity for the study of both historical and contemporary phenomena with the aim to develop theoretical positions but also practice-based research. A meeting in person was held with the ArCHIAM team to discuss the potential cooperation in cultural heritage projects. Last year, the ArCHIAM team worked with the University of Kufa on our Nahrein Network funded project: Heritage Buildings of Kufa. The team’s role was training the students on documenting heritage buildings. The training was online and an in-person meeting was necessary to introduce more cooperation potential. Three main issues were discussed, such as cooperation in research works, building capacity, and partnership in submitting for grants.

What are your future plans now that you are back in Iraq?

The project proposal was to design an action plan to be implemented by students at University of Kufa. The plan will contain training program for the students to learn them how to do inventorying for the intangible cultural heritage elements. Four communities are related to Najaf old city: pilgrims, scientific religious students, workers, and residents. Documenting of the chosen elements will increase the heritage awareness.

Dr Ali in front of the Wilkins Building

We talk to Dr Abdulkareem Yaseen Ahmed, Lecturer in Linguistics at Diyala University. Dr Abdulkareem held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at University of Leicester. Dr Abdulkareem’s project is titled Christian Cultural Heritage in Mosul and is under the supervision of Dr Selena Wisnom.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and your background.

Dr Abdulkareem Yaseen with Professor Eleanor Robson at UCL

My name is Abdulkareem Yaseen, a lecturer at University of Diyala. My academic journey took me to the United Kingdom, where I achieved an MA from the University of York and subsequently completed my PhD at Newcastle University in 2018. Recently, I have successfully concluded a Nahrein Network/BISI-funded project in my role as a co-investigator, centered on the intricate process of identity reconstruction within the war-torn region of Karma, situated in Anbar, to the west of Iraq. This project nicely aligned with my research background, as I have previously engaged with the culturally rich community of Mosul.

What is your project about?

Well, my current project has brought me to the University of Leicester, where I’ve embarked on a mission dedicated to the preservation of the intangible cultural heritage of Mosul’s Christian community. This project is kindly supported by the Nahrein Network, based at University College London, as well as The British Institute for the Study of Iraq. Within the framework of this project, I have delved deeply into the intangible cultural heritage of Mosul’s Christian community and the considerable challenges it confronts. My research findings underscore the pivotal role played by oral traditions and dialects within the cultural heritage of this community. Moreover, I’ve illuminated how conflicts and socio-political turmoil have led to the decline of certain aspects of this intangible cultural heritage. Nevertheless, this project offers a ray of hope by outlining a comprehensive approach aimed at safeguarding and promoting the intangible cultural heritage of Mosul’s Christian community.

How was your stay in the UK?

In fact, my 8-week stay in Leicester has opened doors to new research possibilities and strengthened my commitment to safeguarding the cultural heritage of Mosul’s Christian community and beyond. Everyone at the Nahrein Network as well as the host institution (University of Leicester) has played a pivotal role in ensuring my stay was productive and enjoyable. I can’t thank them enough for what they did for me.

Have you had promising conversations or collaborations with colleagues?

During my stay in Leicester, the scholarship has undeniably broadened my horizons in multiple dimensions. Firstly, it has exposed me to a diverse community of researchers with a wide array of research interests. Interacting with these scholars has provided me with fresh perspectives and invaluable insights into various aspects of heritage preservation and cultural studies. These interactions have not only expanded my academic horizons but have also enriched my personal growth. Moreover, the Department of Archaeology has been a hub of expertise in heritage-related fields. Working closely with specialists from different research backgrounds related to heritage has given me an up-close look at their methodologies and approaches to preserving both tangible and intangible cultural assets. This exposure has deepened my understanding of the multifaceted challenges and opportunities involved in safeguarding cultural heritage. The vibrant academic environment at the University of Leicester has allowed me to engage in numerous meetings and gatherings where ideas and experiences were freely exchanged. So, I feel incredibly fortunate to have had the opportunity to engage with such fantastic individuals.

How do you plan to further your research once you’re back in Iraq?

Looking ahead, my ambitions extend beyond the boundaries of my initial project. I intend to expand the scope of my research to encompass a broader array of communities of interest. In particular, I envision a new chapter in this project that will delve into the rich history and heritage of the Jewish communities in northern Iraq. By doing so, I aim to create a more comprehensive and inclusive portrayal of Iraq’s cultural heritage landscape, shedding light on the multifaceted tapestry of traditions, narratives, and legacies that have shaped this region over centuries. This will not only deepen our understanding of Mosul’s Christian community but also contribute to a more holistic appreciation of the diverse cultural heritage that defines Iraq.

Dr Abdulkareem at UCL’s Japanese Garden Pavilion

How will your scholarship help you with your research?

Upon my return, I am wholeheartedly committed to forging enduring collaborations with the Christian community of Mosul, building upon the invaluable connections I’ve cultivated with the local residents while conducting my project. These relationships have not only enriched my understanding of their cultural heritage but have also demonstrated the genuine commitment of the community to preserving its traditions.

We talk to Dr Hamed H. Samir, Head of Architecture Department, Collage of Engineering, University of Basrah. Dr Hamed held a Nahrein – BISI Visiting Scholarship at University of Loughborough. Dr Hamed’s project is titled Reviving the Local Identity of the City of Basrah and is under the supervision of Dr Sura al-Maiyah.

Tell us about more about your project.

Dr Hamed with “Auto-Icon” of philosopher and reformer, Jeremy Bentham at UCL

Built heritage conservation is essential in post-war areas. In recent years, Iraqi traditional architecture has been deeply affected by several wars, challenging the cultural memory of local people.

My research considers Basra as a pilot case study. Basra is classified as a city rich in cultural heritage. In particular, the canals are a unique feature of the city. Within Iraq, Basra holds the nickname of “Venice of the East”, surrounded by its distinctive architectural identity. Basra today faces urban decay and is losing its architectural heritage and identity in a severe way.

A significant problem is the continuous altering of traditional architecture. The value of Basra’s built environment and its architectural heritage is absent from the local residents. This has contributed to losing countless historical buildings and the unique Basra charm.

The aim of my research is to explore how the legacy of Basra’s past can be transmitted to future generations. My project focuses on digitally documenting the tangible and intangible heritage of Basra. I am hoping to create a digital library to revive the collective memory of residents and to raise awareness regarding the value of Basra’s heritage.

How was your stay in the UK? Did you have promising conversations with colleagues?

It was an amazing experience to be in the UK. I got the chance to meet and work with many colleagues working in similar projects from across the world. In addition, I had the opportunity to visit labs and got experience on the newest cutting-edge tools for heritage documentation.

The colleagues are friendly and very helpful, they were always available to listen and discuss my project and constantly giving feedback. I believe that all this will no doubt lead to developing a solid project and reducing the challenges and barriers.

How will your scholarship help you with your research?

As a researcher, the scholarship in the UK has given me the opportunity to learn the newest technology and tools, such as laser scanning and photogrammetry. In addition, this scholarship has improved my skills regarding the new heritage documenting tools and how to use it. This is very necessary to my project. Moreover, in order to set a plan to create the digital library for Basra city heritage, the interaction with the experts in this field is much required, and this was achieved during my stay in the host university as well as other institutions in UK.

How do you plan to further your research once you are back in Iraq?

The future plan for me after finishing my scholarship and returning to Iraq will focus on creating a digital library for the heritage of Basra city. I believe this library will enhance the knowledge of young architects. In addition, I hope this will raise the awareness of the local people and revive the collective memory of Basra’s heritage and traditional architecture particularly the younger generations.

You can watch Dr Hamed’s seminar titled, Safeguarding the diversity of cultural heritage in Basrah on our YouTube page.