The Syrian Observatory For Human Rights

Afrin | National Army destroys historical heritage

Aleppo province: Reliable sources informed SOHR that ongoing search for antiquities and systematic destruction of archaeological sites by the “National Army” factions in “Olive Branch” area continue.

SOHR sources have observed the destruction of remains of Tal Aqrab archeological site located between Eskan and Jolmah villages in Jandris neighbourhood, some 20 km south of Afrin city. It is worth noting that the hill is one of the registered sites by the Syrian Antiquities Directorate.

The archeological site has been exposed to acts of digging and dredging by heavy diggers and earth-moving machineries in search for artifacts and to destroy the historical heritage of Syria for financial benefits.

The acts of sabotage destroyed 18,000 square meter of the hill surface and the surrounding land.

According to SOHR sources, dozens of archeological hills have exposed systematic acts of sabotage, including Tal Khala, Tal Ain Darah and Tal Aboush via digging by heavy machines that reached the complete surface of the hill Acropolis. The digging acts also reached the hill surrounding land in search for artifacts and treasures.

Since the Turkish forces and their loyal factions have controlled Afrin city, the Turkish forces and factions have destroyed dozens of archeological sites, most prominent of whom was Tal Ain Darah that was exposed to Turkish airstrikes in 2018. The Turkish forces later destroyed the site and looted its basalt lion and transferred it to unknown destination.