Photographic archive preserves Erbil’s history for future generations
A new book documenting Erbil’s history and cultural heritage through photography was launched at the Sultan Muzaffaraddin Cultural and Social Center in Minaret Park, Erbil. Titled The Foundation Stones of Erbil, the book is the work of renowned local photographer Nabil Areef Khidr.
The launch ceremony brought together intellectuals, artists, and prominent figures from the city, highlighting the importance of documenting and preserving Erbil’s historical and cultural heritage.
Through a collection of photographs, the book takes readers on a journey through Erbil’s collective memory, capturing its old neighborhoods, traditional social life, historic streets, and the everyday experiences of earlier generations. It offers a visual record of how the city has changed while preserving images of its past.
An important part of the book focuses on Erbil’s photographic history and its early photography studios, particularly the well-known Jihan Studio. Founded in 1955 by Areef Khidr, the father of Nabil Areef Khidr, the studio became an important part of the city’s photographic heritage and helped document generations of Erbil residents.
The publication goes beyond a collection of historical photographs. It represents an effort to preserve the city’s identity, collective memory, and cultural roots. By bringing together images of Erbil’s past, the book provides younger generations with an opportunity to understand and appreciate the history of their city.
Projects such as The Foundation Stones of Erbil demonstrate the value of photography as a historical record and a bridge between generations, ensuring that the stories, places, and memories that shaped the city remain alive for the future.