EBÎR MUHEMED

 Qamishlo- Many historical places and buildings in North and East Syria were destroyed due to the ongoing war and natural disasters. Before being defeated, ISIS plundered, stole and sold many historical artifacts and destroyed the archaeological sites, including many cemeteries and temples, in Jazira Canton. There are 1043 historical sites in Jazira Canton, according to the Administration of Historical Sites in Jazira Canton, affiliated to the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES).

Efforts to protect historical places with limited resources

The Administration of Historical Sites in Jazira Canton makes great efforts to protect historical places and artifacts in the canton. “We make great efforts to protect historical places with limited resources,” said Hemrîn Omo, Co-chair of the administration. “ISIS destroyed historical sites and artifacts especially between 2012 and 2014.”

‘Archaeological sites are protected by 33 teams’

 Speaking about their activities to protect historical places and artifacts, she said, “We have put many projects into practice to protect and restore archaeological sites. For instance, we put a project into practice in Tell Beydar (a village and ancient site along the Khabur River). In addition, we restored historical houses. We have been carrying out a project to protect and document historical sites and artifacts for a year. The archaeological sites are protected by 33 teams.”

Call on protection of historical sites

The administration also carried out activities in the canton to raise awareness in society about the protection of historical sites. “We give information about how people can protect historical sites. We will make brochures for students about archaeological sites. We call on the assemblies, communes and students to join us for the protection of historical sites and artifacts.”