Historic Mosul gold market dating back to Ottoman era to be restored

NINEVEH — The historic goldsmiths’ market in Mosul, dating back to the Ottoman era, is on the path to revival after years of devastation.

The market, which houses around 700 shops, has long been a vital commercial hub for the city. Its restoration has made huge strides, with shop facades being refurbished using a type of limestone reflective of Mosul’s heritage, and basalt slated for the flooring.

The government-sponsored reconstruction project also includes the installation of a contemporary drainage system.

Merchants in surrounding markets believe the reopening of the gold market will spark economic activity in Mosul, especially parts of the city that are still struggling with widespread displacement and unoccupied areas following the Islamic State assault in 2014 and subsequent occupation.

Ali Nazar, Mosul’s chief municipal engineer, expressed hope that the project would encourage goldsmiths to return. “We have coordinated with representatives of the market’s goldsmiths to invite them back to their shops after the restoration is complete. The market will then become a contemporary yet heritage-rich landmark for Mosul,” he said.

The market initially thrived under Jewish and Christian merchants, with Muslims joining their ranks later. Munib Mohammed, one of the market’s oldest goldsmiths, recalled its transformation over the decades.

“This market has existed since the Ottoman era. Initially, it was half its current size, but its importance as Mosul’s only traditional gold market has remained constant. It was first dominated by Jewish merchants, and later, Christians and Muslims joined the trade,” he said.

Mohammed, who inherited the craft from his family, expressed hope that the market’s revival will bring life back to Mosul’s Right Bank. “If reconstruction continues and residents return to their homes, the market will regain its former glory,” he added.

Ashraf Bashir, head of the goldsmiths’ union, emphasized the broader economic impact of the market’s revival. “The gold market supports a wide range of related professions, from pharmacists to doctors. Restoring this market will help ease pressure on the city’s Left Bank, where rents have soared due to high demand,” he noted.

The project is expected to reach 70% completion by mid-next year, after which shop owners will be encouraged to begin refurbishing their interiors.