Damascus Museum Reopens After Closure Due to Conflict and Looting Fears

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The national museum in Damascus has reopened for the first time since being closed on December 7, just before Islamist-led forces took control of the capital and ousted President Bashar al-Assad. Authorities shut the museum's doors amid fears of looting as rebel forces advanced.

Museum director Mohamed Nair Awad confirmed that the decision to secure the museum was made due to escalating instability in the area. On December 8, following Assad's departure, many government soldiers abandoned their posts, resulting in widespread looting of public institutions. However, Awad reported that Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham provided protection for the museum, allowing it to remain unharmed.

Visitors returned to the museum this week, where they could view artifacts dating back more than 10,000 years. Archaeology student Shahanda al-Baroudi expressed relief and joy upon discovering that the historical collection, which includes Greco-Roman sculptures and various Islamic art pieces, was intact. Outside the museum, some visitors held signs urging new authorities to maintain the preservation of Syria’s cultural heritage.

The museum had previously closed for six years amidst Syria's civil war, which began in 2011, and only reopened in 2018 after Assad regained control over significant parts of the country.

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