This newsletter provides a summary of the most recent reports on the damage to Syria’s heritage. It should be stressed that much of this data cannot be verified, but it is hoped that it will assist in the documentation of the damage occurring, and help raise awareness. Heritage for Peace have released a statement concerning their stance on data recording, available here.
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Stolen archaeological artifacts recovered by authorities from a hideout in the northern countryside of Homs. Source: SANA
Archaeological artifacts recovered in Homs
The Syrian Times reports that authorities found a number of stolen archaeological artifacts abandoned in the northern countryside of Homs. You can read more on the Syrian Times website here.
FBI requests help to stop looting of Syrian antiquities
The US Federal Bureau of Investigation requested help from museums and antiquities dealers to help combat international of Syrian artifacts. Learn more at Vice.
Intangible Heritage
Damascus fair features folk singing and dances
The recent Damascus International Fair included folk singing and dance performances by Syrian performers. Read more on the Syrian Times website.
Reports and Updates from the Syrian People
Syria begin work on Krak des Chevaliers
Syrian specialists begin work on reconstruction of Krak des Chevalier, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In particular the fresco’s in the castle will need a lot of attention. You can learn more on Sputnik News.
Restoration work ongoing in Homs
According to the DGAM, workers of the repair laboratory in the Department of Homs completed work on the maintenance and restoration of a mosaic plate, and the mihrab of the Great Nouri Mosque in Homs.
Policy Changes and Updates from Syria
None
International Activity
Exhibition on Krak des Chevaliers in Paris
It is called ‘Le Krak des Chevaliers; Chronicles of a Stone Dream.’ at the Gallery des Moulages in Salle Viollet-le-Duc and runs until the 11th of November. To learn more go to the City of Architecture and Heritage Website (French).
Palmyra digital reconstructions go on show
The Arab World Institute has joined forces with Ubisoft, a video game publisher, and a startup specializing in the digitization of cultural heritage (Iconem) to create virtual reconstructions of the site. Read more on CTV News.
Lecture at the Norwegian Institute, Rome
Lecture:
From Palmyra to Rome and back again: Palmyrene portraiture,
by RUBINA RAJA (Århus University) on October 25, 2018
(Read more here)
News Updates
(Not covered in other sections)
Art Net published another article about Palmyra possibly reopening for tourists in 2019.
The Syria Times wrote about several important museums in Syria.
Al Monitor wrote about Idlib’s archaeological museum re-opening after it closed in 2012 and most of its contents were moved into storage.
The Antiquities Coalition interviewed Dr. Rebecca Knuth, author of two books about book burning and cultural destruction, about librocide and the destruction of knowledge systems.
Following the recent fire at Brazil’s National museum, Raidio Tellifs Eireann wrote about what is lost when culture and heritage are destroyed, using Syria as another example.
