Morocco Rebuilds 12th-Century Mosque Damaged by 2023 Earthquake

Tinmel, a quaint village in Morocco, found itself at the heart of devastation after a powerful earthquake struck, leading to the collapse of the historically significant Great Mosque of Tinmel. Despite nearly 900 years of existence and restoration efforts, the mosque’s exquisite domes and brick arches crumbled under the intensity of the quake.

The earthquake not only destroyed the mosque but also took a heavy toll on the villagers, claiming the lives of approximately 3,000 individuals, including 15 local residents. The tragic loss has weighed heavily on the community, with mourning families gathering around the mosque to pay their respects. Among them was Mohamed Hartatouch, who carried the remains of his son Abdelkrim, a substitute teacher who perished when the walls and bricks fell around him.

“It looked like a storm. I wasn’t able to feel anything,” Hartatouch reflected on that terrible day.

As a year passed since the earthquake, the community has come together to clear debris and express their commitment to rebuilding both their homes and the mosque. Residents view the mosque as a proud part of their heritage, which also serves as an economic driver in a region that was economically challenged long before the disaster.

“It’s our past,” remarked Redwan Aitsalah, a construction worker who was busy reconstructing his house adjacent to the mosque, underscoring the mosque’s significance to their identity.

According to government reports, the September quake demolished nearly 60,000 homes and 585 schools, incurring losses estimated at $12.3 billion. Roads, like the Tizi N’Test pass, were rendered impassable, further complicating recovery efforts.

Currently, workers are tirelessly sorting through the mosque’s debris, determining how to best reuse materials for its restoration. This work, while difficult, remains a priority for Morocco as they seek to honor their cultural and architectural history amidst overwhelming human loss.

The Moroccan government has mobilized a team of architects, archaeologists, and engineers to oversee the mosque’s reconstruction. Notably, the Italian government offered assistance through architect Aldo Giorgio Pezzi, known for his work on the Hassan II Mosque in Casablanca.

“We will rebuild it based on the evidence and remains that we have so it returns to how it was,” said Morocco’s Minister of Islamic Affairs, Ahmed Toufiq.

The Great Mosque of Tinmel, known for its distinct hand-carved moldings and unique architectural style, was already undergoing an 18-month restoration project when disaster struck. Its partially collapsed structure now lies beneath scaffolding, a testament to the era of architectural brilliance it once represented.

In the aftermath, many villagers reside in temporary plastic tents, seeking refuge from the instability of their damaged homes. The government has begun issuing reconstruction permits, with over 55,000 already granted. However, many recipients have found the initial financial aid of $2,000 insufficient to cover rebuilding costs.

Moroccans grieve not only for their lost loved ones but also for their rich cultural heritage. Numerous ancient structures scattered across the mountains have long suffered neglect, revealing deep-rooted disparities in development efforts across the country.

The mosque at Tinmel symbolizes a pivotal part of Morocco’s history, having served as an inspiration for other notable sites in Marrakech and Seville. However, as political power shifted throughout the years, the mosque fell into disrepair, overshadowed by the growing focus on Morocco’s urban centers.

Mouhcine El Idrissi, an archaeologist working with the Ministry of Culture, noted that although the state abandoned the site, respect for its historical significance has remained deeply ingrained in local tradition.

While some historic sites continue to draw tourists, the aftermath of the earthquake has illuminated socioeconomic issues within the region. The Civil Coalition for the Mountain highlighted the ongoing struggle against geographical isolation and poverty in the mountainous areas, emphasizing the urgent need for recovery and rebuilding efforts.

Authorities have pledged to create a comprehensive reconstruction plan that respects the heritage of affected regions. This initiative promises to address infrastructure and improve public services while honoring the cultural customs of the community.

The Great Mosque of Tinmel remains a crucial emblem for the residents, representing hope for revitalization in a marginalized region and honoring the rich history they hold dear. For now, the mosque stands in disrepair, with its enchanting ruins barely supported by wooden scaffolding as the community rallies together amid the remnants of their former lives.

Source: AP