GEM - Art

Ctesiphon ranks among the great cities of ancient Mesopotamia and what remains today is only its ruins, reminding us of the prominence of the city and the magnificence of the ancient times. This monument is considered one of the greatest treasures of not only Iraqi, but also world cultural heritage. However, the monument is at the same time listed as one of the most endangered heritage sites.

The entire monument is under a severe threat of total collapse. The most critically afflicted is the Arch of Ctesiphon, Taq-i Kisra, the largest standing brick arch in the world. The structural integrity of the arch is now at high risk due to climate changes, floods, fluctuating water levels, war conflicts and constrained long-lasting neglect. This architectural wonder is in an urgent need of structural stabilization. Subsequently preservation and restoration works should ensue.

Project objectives

• Expert structural stabilization of the Arch of Iwan al-Mada’in in Ctesiphon project with the use of the supporting frame construction protecting the arch body from collapsing as the first step of the rescue works of this unique monument of incalculable value, which is in a desolate state and is thus seriously endangered
• Delivery of the designed set of structural elements for stabilization of the arch
• Implementation of the supporting structural construction by the Gema Art team experts, supervision and organization of the project during the stabilization works on the arch
• Consolidation of areas in acute risk of collapse
• Final report and evaluation of the intervention