Great Omari Mosque

The Great Omari Mosque, Gaza City's oldest and largest mosque with origins dating back over 2,000 years, is a significant landmark that has been heavily damaged during recent Israeli military operations. The mosque's destruction, including its distinctive octagonal minaret, occurred during the Israel-Palestine war, specifically in December 2023. This damage is part of a broader pattern of destruction affecting numerous heritage sites in Gaza. Currently, Palestinians are working to salvage what remains of the mosque and other cultural heritage sites. The Palestinian Authority has submitted files to UNESCO to list the mosque and other sites as World Heritage sites, aiming to protect them from further attacks and appropriation. The mosque's administrator reflects on its deep significance to the people of Gaza. Recovery work, including rubble removal, is underway, highlighting the ongoing effort to preserve Gaza's history amidst the ruins of war.