On 24 September 2004, Cultural Emergency Response gave the people of Mestassa (North Morocco) 25,000 euro to restore and maintain their 14th century mosque as the centre of village life.The earthquake of 24 February this year destroyed the homes of many who had re-migrated from the Netherlands. The mosque remained standing, but the structure of the building was damaged and its stability threatened. 26 September marks the first anniversary of Cultural Emergency Response (CER).
The people of Mestassa received financial aid from CER to restore its mosque. Mestassa is 70 kilometres from Al-Hoceima, North Morocco.The mosque dates from the Merinids Era (1244-1465).The building is a popular version of the architectural style of this Berber dynasty.While the houses of many re-migrants from the Netherlands proved unable to hold out against the earthquake of 24 February 2004, the old mosque remained standing. It was well built, using construction techniques that helped it resist nature's violent forces. Nonetheless, the fabric of the building was cracked, which jeopardised the mosque's stability and future.Therefore the outer wall is being reinforced; the exterior, including the garden and entrance, are being reconstructed. The drainage system, the well, and the chimney at the entrance will be repaired and the entire building will be given a fresh coat of whitewash.The work was done to preserve the mosque of Mestassa as a model for sustainable building in North Morocco, and as a safe social centre and school.
Restoration of the 14th Century Mosque of Mestassa, Morocco, 2004. Photo: Mohamed Ziati
CER provides emergency relief for cultural heritages that have been affected by man-made or natural disasters.
Cultural Emergency Response
Prince Claus Fund
Hoge Nieuwstraat 30
2514 EL The Hague
Tel. 31 (0)70 4274303
Fax 31 (0)70 4274277
E-mail cer@princeclausfund.nl
www.princeclausfund.nl
