Italy Restores Assyrian Statue (Bull of Nimrud) Destroyed by ISIS: A Gesture of Cultural Renewal in Iraq

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Italy has donated a meticulously reconstructed Assyrian statue, the "Bull of Nimrud," to Iraq, which was destroyed by ISIS in 2015. This replica, created using advanced 3D-printing technology, now stands permanently outside the Basrah Museum in Basra. The donation underscores Italy's commitment to safeguarding cultural heritage and fostering international collaboration in this endeavor.

At the inauguration ceremony attended by Italian and Iraqi officials, Culture Minister Gennaro Sangiuliano reiterated Italy's dedication to preserving cultural heritage. Former culture minister Francesco Rutelli, whose organization spearheaded the replication project, emphasized the significance of the donation as a symbol of Italian soft power and cultural diplomacy.

The original "Bull of Nimrud" was situated in the ancient city of Nimrud, the capital of the Assyrian king Ashurnasirpal II. Following ISIS's destruction of the site, Italian artisans meticulously reconstructed the bull using photographs and videos, resulting in a fiberglass replica coated with stone dust-infused plastic for authenticity.

Italy's contribution follows previous restitution efforts, including the return of a tablet to Iraq during a state visit in June. This gesture underscores Italy's commitment to preserving global heritage and rectifying the loss of Iraq's cultural treasures.

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