The Mestassa mosque, which is also used as a community centre and school, dates from the Merinid era (1244-1465) and is a vernacular version of the architectural style of this Berber dynasty. It was badly damaged by the earthquake of 2004. CER donated €25,000, which covered the mosque’s reinforcement and its most essential renovation. However, further work is required so as to restore the Mestassa mosque to its original state and to maintain its function as the centre of village life.
At the Prince Claus Fund’s request, the Dutch-based Morocco Fund has agreed to assume responsibility for the Mestassa mosque’s complete restoration.
The Morocco Fund’s donation of €15,000 will be used to construct a central square in front of the mosque and to repair the ablution space and the entrance to the garden. The project will be directed by the architect Mohamed Cheikh (Al-Hoceima, Morocco) and will be co-ordinated by the CER program.
Partners’ information:
The Morocco Fund www.marokkofonds.nl
The emergency recovery of the village mosque of Mestassa. Copyright: Mohamed Cheikh
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
