In a recent letter to the editor, Luis Monréal, General Manager of the Aga Khan Trust for Culture (AKTC), has highlighted significant international involvement in the reconstruction of Aleppo, Syria, challenging the notion that all efforts are purely local. This response comes in reaction to a long-read article that detailed the impacts of Syria's civil war on the city but stated that 'All the reconstruction efforts so far are local'.
International Restoration Projects in Aleppo
Since 2018, the Aga Khan Trust for Culture has been actively engaged in restoring eight key areas of the medieval souk located in Aleppo's historic old city. This work includes the revival of shops and covered markets, with plans for ongoing rehabilitation to further preserve the cultural heritage of the area. According to Monréal, these efforts are not only restoring physical structures but also inspiring local traders to undertake private restoration of their shops in peripheral sections of the souk, adhering to local standards and practices.
Collaborative Efforts with UN Organisations
In addition to the AKTC's initiatives, United Nations organisations such as Unesco and UN-Habitat are playing a crucial role in helping to restore elements of Aleppo's historic centre. This international collaboration underscores a broader, coordinated approach to rebuilding the city, which has suffered extensive damage during the years of conflict.
A Narrative of Cautious Optimism
An article published this month on the Aga Khan Development Network website, titled 'The Aleppo Souk, Crucible of Memory', describes this restoration work in detail. It portrays a city where, despite the profound loss and devastation caused by the war, international restoration efforts are fostering a genuine sense of cautious optimism. This narrative, as Monréal emphasises, is real and deserves greater attention in discussions about Aleppo's future.
The letter serves as a reminder that while local initiatives are vital, the involvement of international bodies is equally important in the complex process of rebuilding Aleppo. It calls for a more nuanced understanding of the reconstruction efforts, acknowledging the diverse contributions that are helping to revive this ancient medina.
