Exploring reasons for divergent local communities’ responses to antiquities preservation during conflict in the northwest of Syria – 2014-2023

Abstract

The grave damage to Syrian antiquities inflicted during the war has demonstrated the failure of international organizations and cultural agreements to protect antiquities in Syria and highlighted the divergent attitudes of Syrians themselves regarding their antiquities. Initiatives were undertaken in some areas to safeguard antiquities, but were lacking in others, and some Syrians were themselves involved in plundering and destruction actions. This paper aims to identify the reasons for such stark differences in local communities’ responses to safeguarding Syrian antiquities. A total of 46 semi-structured interviews were conducted with residents of Idlib and northern rural Aleppo, including local archaeologists. The study demonstrated differences between the two areas regarding knowledge and attitudes and revealed that a range of factors led to clear differences in the responses of the local communities in Idlib and those of northern rural Aleppo regarding antiquities protection. Some factors were anticipated, such as the impact of war, the security situation, and the deteriorating economic situation, while new factors have been identified. Understanding the local attitudes to antiquities, including the reasons for its protection or destruction, will support plans for enhancing the role of local communities in preserving their antiquities during the conflict.