BIBLE HISTORY DAILY

Syrian Antiquities Can’t Escape Violence

Bible and Archaeology News

According to Syria’s director of museums, many of the country’s famous antiquities sites and museums are beginning to suffer from the violent political unrest that has engulfed the country. Hiba al-Sakhel, the director of museums in Syria, reports that in addition to looting at famous sites like Apamea and Palmyra, armed gunmen have taken up positions in the Crusader stronghold of Krak des Chevaliers, while the important Bronze Age city of Ebla has been the site of fierce clashes between regime forces and opposition fighters. In addition, several artifacts have been looted from the Hama museum, including ancient weapons and statues dating to the Greco-Roman period. Sakhel believes many of the stolen pieces are being trafficked to Lebanon and other neighboring countries where they are then sold on the antiquities market. “This heritage does not belong to governments or the president,” said Sakhel. “It belongs to all Syrians. It belongs to humanity.”

According to Syria’s director of museums, many of the country’s famous antiquities sites and museums are beginning to suffer from the violent political unrest that has engulfed the country.

In the Middle East, archaeological looting and the deliberate destruction of archaeological sites and monuments are rampant. What, if anything, can be done? Read more >>