The College of Education for the Humanities at the University of Kerbala, in collaboration with the KerbalaCentre for Studies and Research affiliated with the Holy Shrine of Imam Hussein and the Kerbala Antiquities Directorate, organised a scientific symposium titled “Religious Identities in Kerbala: Roots and Dimensions.” The symposium featured lectures by Mr. Abdul Amir Aziz Al-Quraishi, Director of the KerbalaCentre for Studies and Research; Prof. Zuhair Al-Jawahiri from the same center; Prof. Haider Al-Karbalaei, a staff member in the Department of History; and archaeological excavator Mr. Zahid Muhammad Alawi from the Kerbala Antiquities Directorate. The event was attended by faculty members and students of the college.
The symposium aimed to shed light on the presence of Christian and Jewish communities in Kerbala, highlighting their settlements, churches, monasteries, and prominent structures that existed before the advent of Islam. Moreover, the symposium addressed several pivotal themes, including: the historical and cultural significance of Qasr Maqatil (the Palace of Maqatil) as a testament to Kerbala’s rich heritage, the exploration of archaeological sites excavated in Kerbala, and an introduction to Kerbala’s overlooked antiquities, such as the Nestorian Church of Al-Qasir.
The speakers focused on prominent churches and palaces still standing today, particularly the Nestorian Church of Al-Aqiser and the archaeological site of Qasr Maqatil, both of which date back to the 3rd century CE. They also discussed other excavated and unexplored archaeological sites, including Christian and Jewish cemeteries, some of which remain unexcavated, sparking significant academic interest.
At the conclusion of the symposium, the Dean of the College, Prof. Drb Hadi Alsa’eedi, expressed appreciation for the distinguished speakers by presenting them with certificates of recognition, acknowledging their valuable contributions and scholarly efforts. The college extends its best wishes for their continued success and excellence.
