Preserving the Oldest Islamic Heritage Structures on the Spice Route: Wapauwe Mosque of Maluku

The Maluku Archipelago wooden mosques are among the oldest surviving Islamic structures in Southeast Asia and are an example of vernacular Muslim architecture that has almost disappeared from the region. Located in an area with violent ethnic and religious clashes, the 15th century Wapauwe mosque is at risk of vigilante vandalism. By carrying out conservation of the mosque, on-the-job training in traditional skills is provided for local carpenters.