Skip to main content

UNESCO steps in to protect what's left of Syria's Palmyra

Countless antiquities have been obliterated in the fierce fighting and rampant destruction in Syria, where the famous Palmyra archaeological site has lost a devastating portion of its treasures.
A general view shows the historic city of Palmyra, in Homs Governorate in this file handout picture provided by SANA on March 27, 2016. REUTERS/SANA/Handout via Reuters/Files  ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS PICTURE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. REUTERS IS UNABLE TO INDEPENDENTLY VERIFY THE AUTHENTICITY, CONTENT, LOCATION OR DATE OF THIS IMAGE. FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NOT FOR SALE FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING CAMPAIGNS. THIS PICTURE IS DISTRIBUTED EXACTLY AS RECEIVED BY REUTERS, AS A SERVICE TO CLIENTS - RTSD10L
Read in 

ALEPPO, Syria — The city of Palmyra's archaeological heritage has been severely battered — but not destroyed — after years of fighting in Syria, experts say.

Until recently, Palmyra was one of Syria's most important tourist attractions. Before the Syrian revolution broke out in March 2011, the city, which dates back to the beginning of the second century and is registered on the UNESCO World Heritage List, attracted tourists from around the world.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.