Gazans battle to salvage ancient books in war-ravaged mosque library

France 24

by FRANCE24

February 25, 2026

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Gazans battle to salvage ancient books in war-ravaged mosque library

Gazans are working tirelessly to rescue ancient books from a mosque library heavily damaged by war. These rare texts, many centuries old, hold significant cultural and historical value, including works by renowned scholars like Al-Khwarizmi. The destruction of such libraries is part of a broader pattern of cultural erasure in conflict zones, raising concerns about the loss of invaluable knowledge. The ancient books, some dating back to the Islamic Golden Age, were stored in the Al-Mahdiyya Mosque Library in Gaza City. The library, once a hub for scholars and researchers, has suffered extensive damage due to years of conflict. Efforts to salvage the remaining books are risky, as residents navigate dangerous conditions to retrieve the fragile texts. These books are not just religious manuscripts; they include works on mathematics, medicine, astronomy, and philosophy that influenced global knowledge. Their destruction represents a loss not only for Gaza but for the world's collective heritage. Many of these texts may never be recovered, leaving gaps in our understanding of history and human progress. The battle to save these books highlights the importance of cultural preservation during times of war. In regions like Gaza, where conflict is constant, such efforts are vital to protecting humanity's shared legacy. The resilience of those risking their lives to preserve these treasures underscores the enduring value of knowledge and heritage in the face of adversity. This story matters because it sheds light on the broader issue of cultural destruction in crisis zones. Beyond salvage operations, it calls attention to the need for international cooperation to protect cultural landmarks and archives globally. Preserving such collections ensures that future generations can learn from and appreciate the contributions of past civilizations.

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Originally published on France 24 on 2/25/2026