A devastating new report reveals the extent of destruction of the legendary Syrian city of Palmyra, where eight of the ten buildings are now on the brink of ruins or collapse. The ancient oasis city, which has represented a two-thousand-year-old monument, has been swept by years of conflict, and its 2,200-year-old temple has been reduced to the shattering of priceless artifacts of its rubble and its museums.
Comprehensive on-site research conducted after Syria’s liberation from the Assad regime paints grim pictures of archaeological treasures and modern cities. A collaborative effort between the MILà IFontanals Institution (IMF-CSIC) of the Spanish National Research Council and the peaceful NGO heritage studies documented the systematic destruction of cultural heritage, which occurred along with the humanitarian crisis, which disappeared 90% of the time the Palmyra population.
“We want to raise awareness among local communities and the international community about the serious threats facing the Palmyra heritage,” said Isber Sabrine, an archaeologist of Syrian origin and one of the coordinators of the report.
The assessment covering approximately 12 square kilometers reveals the scale of destruction of the most important monuments in Palmyra. The iconic four-wing is a grand second-century structure with four cylindrical clusters that have been reduced to scattered pieces of stone by explosion. Perhaps the most shocking thing is the complete destruction of Baalshamin Temple, an architectural miracle that has survived the recent conflict since ancient times.
Even the city’s famous Roman theater did not escape the loss. Researchers documented the collapsed facades in evidence of bombing and illegal excavation. Once the site of irreplaceable artifacts, the Palmyra Archaeological Museum is now severely damaged by air bombing, and its precious statues and funeral collections have been largely destroyed.
The city’s natural heritage suffered equally devastating losses. The EFQA oasis spanning 400 hectares was burned in a fire in 2020. Today, surviving palm and olive tree owners work hard to save what remains in orchards in areas where water is cut off.
Human charges are similar to physical damage. Of the 100,000 pre-conflict population in Palmyra, only about 10,000 residents returned to a city where basic services were barely present. A few returning face the danger of severe poverty and constant explosion of ordnance, with mines and weapons scattered throughout the region.
A small number of dedicated people continue to protect what remains. Although non-operating, the Archaeological Museum is protected by antiquities and local volunteer bureau personnel and works without the support of the new government.
The report stressed that Palmyra’s cultural protection is inseparable from its humanitarian recovery. “Without housing, basic services and economic opportunities, the return of the population will be limited, making it difficult for local professionals and workers to obtain heritage protection,” Sabrine noted.
The study drew observations from 15 contributors, including Palmira citizens, archaeologists and returning refugees, by archaeologist Hasan Ali and Mohammed of the Palmilin Phonetic Initiative Fare price coordination. Their discoveries tracked the city’s struggles during several times of conflict, including ISIS occupation and repression for many years.
Looking ahead, the report calls for urgent action to implement rehabilitation strategies for archaeological sites and modern cities. The joint efforts between the IMF-CSIC and the Palmyra Voice Initiative are a key step towards preserving the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the site was first etched in 1980 and supports post-conflict reconstruction in Syria.
To restore Palmyra to its former vitality and protect its remaining legacy, the researchers concluded that rebuilding basic infrastructure must be prioritized. Only by restoring the livable space of the city can its ancient wonders be preserved for future generations.
If you find this piece useful, consider supporting our work with a one-time or monthly donation. Your contribution allows us to continue to bring you accurate, thought-provoking scientific and medical news that you can trust. Independent reporting requires time, effort, and resources, and your support makes it possible for us to continue exploring stories that are important to you. Together, we can ensure that important discoveries and developments attract those who need them the most.
