Ancient Treasures Vanish from Syria's National Museum

A Brazen Heist in Damascus

Syria's National Museum in Damascus recently faced a significant loss when thieves made off with several ancient Roman-era statues. The museum, which reopened just a few months ago after a long closure due to the country's civil war, is now grappling with the aftermath of this brazen heist.

The Theft Unfolds

The theft occurred on a Sunday night, going unnoticed until the following morning. Guards discovered a broken door in the classical department, leading to the discovery of the missing statues. The museum's security had been beefed up after the civil war began in 2011, with metal gates and surveillance cameras installed, and many artifacts relocated to Damascus for safety.

Valuable Artifacts Lost

Despite these precautions, six marble statues were stolen. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are questioning guards and other individuals who might have information about the incident. The stolen statues are part of a collection that dates back to the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods, making them invaluable pieces of history.

A Symbolic Reopening

The museum's reopening in January marked a new chapter for Syria, following the fall of the Assad regime. However, the fear of looting has been a constant concern. The civil war has taken a toll on many historic sites, including Palmyra, which was once held by the Islamic State group. In 2015, IS members destroyed several mausoleums in Palmyra's UNESCO World Heritage site, causing irreparable damage to its 2,000-year-old Roman colonnades and other artifacts.

The Ongoing Challenge

This recent theft highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Syria in protecting its cultural heritage. The loss of these ancient statues is not just a blow to the museum but to the entire country's rich history.