Gaza’s cultural heritage survives Israel’s attacks against all odds
Gaza’s historical sites, including the ancient city of Anthedon, endure severe damage amid conflict, yet many artifacts safely reside in Switzerland due to an old blockade
The relentless conflict in Gaza has devastated its ancient treasures, with significant sites like the ancient Greek city of Anthedon severely damaged.
Despite the ongoing conflict, some of Gaza’s most valuable historical artifacts remain safe.
The Israeli blockade, imposed over 16 years ago and significantly limiting movement out of Gaza, prompted the transfer of many artifacts to Switzerland for an exhibition.
Originally a source of immense hardship, this blockade inadvertently became the protector of Gaza’s archaeological treasures.
“These artifacts were moved for safekeeping during times we thought were temporary,” explained Jean-Baptiste Humbert from the French Biblical and Archaeological School in Jerusalem.
“Now, they are unexpectedly preserved far from the current destruction.”
Palestinian archaeologist Fadel al-Otol actively monitors the destruction of these historical sites. Using satellite images, a U.N. cultural organization has confirmed the damage to about 41 historic sites due to the attacks.
Al-Otol and his volunteers use a WhatsApp group to share real-time updates and photos and track the damage.
“All the archaeological remains in the north have been hit,” al-Otol reported by phone to Agence France-Presse (AFP) from Gaza.
For instance, the 13th-century Al-Basha palace in Gaza City has been completely destroyed. Al-Otol shared his despair over the site, noting, “It held hundreds of ancient objects and magnificent sarcophagi.”
Jean-Baptiste Humbert from the French Biblical and Archaeological School in Jerusalem expressed uncertainty about the fate of many artifacts.
“Did someone remove the objects before blowing the building up?” he questioned, reflecting the confusion and loss surrounding these cultural treasures.
While destruction continues in Gaza, a significant collection of artifacts previously transported to Switzerland for exhibition remains safe.
These items include 260 objects from the collection of Jawdat Khoudary, a Gazan construction magnate and collector who had amassed many artifacts.
These objects are in good condition in Geneva, safeguarded from the conflict.
“The most important collection of objects on Gaza’s history is in Geneva.
If there is a new show, it will allow the whole world to learn about our history,” Gazan construction magnate and collector Jawdat Khoudary said.
Source: Newsroom
