The turmoil in Lebanon has taken a toll not only on its people but also on the nation's ancient heritage. The fear surrounding the archaeological sites, particularly those in Baalbek, highlights the fragile state of Lebanon’s cultural treasures. The UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning Roman temples, has come under direct threat as Israeli airstrikes intensify in the region, leading to the displacement of civilians and the loss of countless lives.
Among the inhabitants forced to evacuate is Mohammad Kanso, who spent his childhood playing among the Baalbek ruins. The ancient structures provided not just a sense of identity but were a significant aspect of Lebanon's historical fabric. As airstrikes drew closer, Kanso's family had to abandon their home, and soon after, a missile strike devastated an adjacent Ottoman structure that they cherished.
The ongoing conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, with reports indicating that nearly a quarter of the five million population has been displaced and significant civilian casualties have occurred. Cultural heritage sites, however, remain at grave risk as military operations unfold.
The Lebanese military, alongside archaeologists and conservationists, has begun urgent measures to safeguard ancient artifacts, primarily those dating back to Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. However, even with the recent declaration of 34 cultural sites receiving “enhanced protection” from UNESCO—categorizing any attack on them as a serious violation—there remains a staggering number of treasures outside this list that have already succumbed to the destruction of war.
As a single burial site, historic churches, and ancient markets face obliteration, experts fear the lasting impacts on Lebanon’s cultural identity. The need for immediate action and international attention has never been more critical to prevent irreparable harm to a nation that prides itself on its rich historical narrative.
Among the inhabitants forced to evacuate is Mohammad Kanso, who spent his childhood playing among the Baalbek ruins. The ancient structures provided not just a sense of identity but were a significant aspect of Lebanon's historical fabric. As airstrikes drew closer, Kanso's family had to abandon their home, and soon after, a missile strike devastated an adjacent Ottoman structure that they cherished.
The ongoing conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis in Lebanon, with reports indicating that nearly a quarter of the five million population has been displaced and significant civilian casualties have occurred. Cultural heritage sites, however, remain at grave risk as military operations unfold.
The Lebanese military, alongside archaeologists and conservationists, has begun urgent measures to safeguard ancient artifacts, primarily those dating back to Phoenician, Roman, Byzantine, and Ottoman periods. However, even with the recent declaration of 34 cultural sites receiving “enhanced protection” from UNESCO—categorizing any attack on them as a serious violation—there remains a staggering number of treasures outside this list that have already succumbed to the destruction of war.
As a single burial site, historic churches, and ancient markets face obliteration, experts fear the lasting impacts on Lebanon’s cultural identity. The need for immediate action and international attention has never been more critical to prevent irreparable harm to a nation that prides itself on its rich historical narrative.
