Learn about Cultural heritage

Threats to cultural heritage in Raqqa

As the government lost control over Raqqa province in 2012, the situation became more difficult especially when the ISIS occupied Raqqa in 2014 and started a new phase of destruction, looting, vandalism, and iconoclasm. They immediately destroyed two Assyrian statues that were displayed in the central park, dating back to the 9th century B.C. This action was followed by the destruction of the mosque and shrine of Oueis al Qarni, a site of great importance for both sects of Islam, Sunni and Shia. Following a campaign of digitally mediated iconoclasm that they put while destroying heritage sites in Iraq, the ISIS released a video of the destruction of the mosque and shrine online. They also attacked the church of Our Dam of Salvation in Raqqa and converted it into a training center.ntre.

“Owning a home is a keystone of wealth, both financial affluence and emotional security.”

Suze Orman

Raqqa City

The city of Raqqa has been chosen because it is where the cultural heritage has suffered damages in a very ostensible way. Since the outbreak of the civil war in Syria in 2011, the historical monuments in Raqqa city and the archaeological sites in the province have been subject to various threats. However, as Raqqa was a territory occupied by ISIS, the level of damage to cultural heritage sites was immeasurable. Different types of criminal activities against heritage sites have been exercised such as destruction, vandalism, iconoclasm, and looting.

Reported Damage

As a result of the conflict in Raqqa, there has been reported damage by the American Schools of Oriental Research (ASOR- Heritage initiative) and ACNES, to the historic Old City, especially in the area around Raqqa Museum, the Raqqa Walls, the Banat palace, and the Baghdad gate, in addition to ancient mosques, shrines, and churches, such as shrine of Oueis al Qarni, and Our Dam of Salvation church in Raqqa and the old mosque in Raqqa.

“Owning a home is a keystone of wealth, both financial affluence and emotional security.”

Suze Orman

Learn about Cultural heritage

Threats to cultural heritage in Raqqa

“Owning a home is a keystone of wealth, both financial affluence and emotional security.”

Raqqa City

Reported Damage

“Owning a home is a keystone of wealth, both financial affluence and emotional security.”

Raqqa Project

Contact Information

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