Baraka: Revitalization of the oldest preserved Sudanese Mosque at Old Dongola

Standing on a sandstone outcrop, the early 9th-century Mosque of Old Dongola is the oldest preserved mosque in Sudan and the best example of Medieval Nubian architecture with remarkable painted decorations. Originally a church or a throne room, it was converted into a mosque in the early 14th century and remains a place of great spiritual importance. Severe climate conditions have endangered the site, and the mosque now requires restoration works to strengthen the structure and emergency protection for the murals. In a project led by the Polish Centre of Mediterranean Archaeology at the University of Warsaw, Sudanese experts and the National Corporation of Antiquities and Museums (NCAM) staff are being trained in heritage management skills, conservation expertise, and earning hands-on experience. In order to ensure the long-term preservation of the site, the project will upskill local residents and community partners to become technicians and museum guides. Despite the current crisis context in Sudan, part of the project continues to move forward.

This project is led by ALIPH in partnership wit the UAE Ministry of Culture and Youth.