In recent weeks, the war in Lebanon has resulted in significant casualties and displacement, with nearly one quarter of the nation’s five million inhabitants forced to abandon their homes. Among the hardest-hit areas is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Baalbek, famous for its ancient Roman temples, which have now become a frontline in the conflict. Emotional stories emerge from those who have lost their connection to these treasured sites, like Mohammad Kanso, who watched the destruction unfold near his childhood playground.
UNESCO has publicly condemned the assault on cultural heritage, designating 34 sites in Lebanon for “enhanced protection” under the Hague Convention. However, many historical landmarks remain unprotected, exposing them to damage and destruction, thus erasing significant parts of Lebanon’s history. Archaeologists and conservationists scramble to shield precious artifacts and promote awareness of this cultural loss amidst the chaos of conflict.
The Lebanese military has stepped up its efforts, aiding in the relocation of artifacts from vulnerable areas, while local experts voice their urgent concerns. The international community watches closely as the threat to Lebanon's antiquities parallels the broader ramifications of the war, where both people and cultural legacies are at stake.
UNESCO has publicly condemned the assault on cultural heritage, designating 34 sites in Lebanon for “enhanced protection” under the Hague Convention. However, many historical landmarks remain unprotected, exposing them to damage and destruction, thus erasing significant parts of Lebanon’s history. Archaeologists and conservationists scramble to shield precious artifacts and promote awareness of this cultural loss amidst the chaos of conflict.
The Lebanese military has stepped up its efforts, aiding in the relocation of artifacts from vulnerable areas, while local experts voice their urgent concerns. The international community watches closely as the threat to Lebanon's antiquities parallels the broader ramifications of the war, where both people and cultural legacies are at stake.
