Historical Evolution of Cities

This project brings to light the economic, cultural, and social legacy of Sulaimani’s first factory through an interactive mobile AR app.

Part of our Digital Heritage Internship Program, “Historical Evolution of Cities: How Industrial Change is Changing Our Life” invites users on a journey through time using Augmented Reality (AR). This project is one of four digital capstone initiatives led by five emerging creators from Sulaimani, under the guidance of the Cultural Heritage Organization.

Through an interactive mobile AR app, this project brings to light the economic, cultural, and social legacy of Sulaimani’s first factory, known historically as the Cigarette Factory, now repurposed as the Culture Factory. The app uses location-based storytelling, blending firsthand testimonies with immersive visuals to reveal how industrial development shaped the lives, neighborhoods, and futures of the city’s residents.

From prosperity to decline, the app maps the transformation of a once-thriving economic center into a neglected space, sparking deeper conversation on how such forgotten landmarks can be revitalized into creative, community-driven hubs.

To explore this living piece of urban history: download the app and scan the designated photos to begin your augmented journey. Currently only available for Android.

Project partners: CHO, KISSR, NN, UCL, and British Museum

Funder: NN, UCL

Creative Director: Dr. Rozhen Kamal Mohammed-Amin

Design & Content: Hawzhin Mahmood Salih, Ahmad Ibrahim Hama Amin, Roza Rebwar Qadir

Software Development: Karo Kameran Rasool