The Directorate General of Antiquities and Museums (DGAM) continues its national efforts to protect Syria’s cultural heritage through securing archaeological sites, carrying out urgent restorations, managing museums, and strengthening international cooperation to preserve the country’s historical legacy. Within this framework, the Idlib Antiquities Directorate has begun excavation work at a recently identified Byzantine-era cemetery in the city of Maarat al-Numan.
A specialized committee conducted ten days of fieldwork that included cleaning the archaeological tombs, preparing engineering drawings, completing precise topographic surveys, and documenting all findings through professional photography.
The committee is finalizing a comprehensive report detailing the excavated tombs along with required recommendations for the property owner to ensure the safeguarding and long-term preservation of the site. These discoveries are expected to contribute valuable information to the archaeological record of the region.
Restoration of Idlib Museum Façade
In parallel, the Idlib Directorate announced the completion of restoration works on the exterior façades of the Idlib Museum, an important step in rehabilitating this key cultural institution. The project was carried out with support from the University of Pennsylvania, funded by a US Department of State grant, and implemented in cooperation with the Syrians for Heritage (SIMAT) association.
This initiative forms part of broader efforts to protect and promote cultural heritage in Idlib and maintain prominent historical landmarks. The museum, which houses significant archaeological collections, plays a central role in documenting the region’s ancient past.
The cooperation reflects a continued commitment by international partners to supporting Syrian heritage preservation and underlines the importance of collaborative work among academic institutions, organizations, and government bodies in safeguarding sites of global cultural value.
Preserving Urban and Historical Fabric Across Governorates
The Damascus Antiquities Directorate has issued several repair and restoration permits for deteriorated external façades of historic buildings in the Old City to preserve the area’s urban heritage and prevent further structural damage.
This initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to maintain the cultural fabric of one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities. Meanwhile, the Lattakia Antiquities Directorate has completed rehabilitation works on the historic Triumphal Arch and its surrounding area.
These projects, implemented across multiple governorates, reflect DGAM’s continued work to conserve archaeological landmarks, restore their visual character, and protect Syria’s cultural heritage for future generations.
