Syria’s Treasure Hunting Fever Grows Amidst Economic Hardships

• Treasure hunting in Syria is booming post-Assad’s fall.
• Metal detectors banned before are now sold widely.
• Palmyra’s ancient sites are heavily impacted by looting.
• Desperation drives locals to search for burial treasures.
• Experts call for action against antiquity demand in the West.

Surge in Treasure Hunting After Political Shift

Treasure hunting in Syria is on the rise, particularly after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad. With metal detectors now being available across the country, a surge in treasure-seeking has emerged. Previously, such devices were banned due to concerns about their military use; however, as security has crumbled, residents are turning to ancient history for some hope amid the economic hardships they face. Driven by poverty and desperation, Syrians are increasingly digging through their homeland to uncover buried treasures from times long past.

Palmyra: A Site of Hope and Despair

William Christou, a reporter, highlighted the dramatic transformation in treasures-seeking activities, particularly in Palmyra, known for its ancient ruins. This once vibrant site now bears the marks of a desperation; many locals have left holes across the landscape in hopes of uncovering something valuable. As the security landscape has deteriorated, it’s not just about the thrill anymore – it represents a potential means of survival. As more and more people scour the land for millennia-old burial sites, the implications for archaeology and heritage preservation grow more critical.

Looting and Demand for Antiquities

Amr Al-Azm, a prominent Syrian archaeologist, weighs in on this troubling trend. He leads the Athar Project, which closely monitors the digital marketplace for illegally looted items in the Middle East. He connects the uptick in treasure hunting to the aftermath of the Islamic State’s rampage, which has radically altered the landscape of heritage and historical preservation. Al-Azm argues that to truly curb the looting, the demand from markets in Europe and North America must be addressed. The future of Syria’s heritage hangs in the balance as locals search for treasures that could help salvage their economy.

In conclusion, the rise of treasure hunting in Syria post-Assad reflects significant socio-economic changes in the region, largely driven by poverty. The situation in Palmyra is grim, with locals digging for treasures amid a backdrop of despair. Experts argue that addressing the demand for these antiquities abroad is essential to preventing further looting and preserving the country’s ancient heritage.