200-year-old Ottoman cannon stolen from Aleppo Museum, fired in Syrian civil war

A 200-year-old Ottoman cannon, once proudly displayed at the Aleppo Museum in Syria, was taken by rebels during the civil war and was used in combat. A video surfaced showing the historic artifact being fired in battle, showcasing the repurposing of this significant piece of history.

The Syrian Civil War is one of the most devastating conflicts on earth post-WW2.

There were some lighter moments however, such as rebels using a
a 200 year old Ottoman Cannon from the Aleppo Musuem against regime positions. pic.twitter.com/POAfMsl6Qx

— CJ (@CasualArtyFan) December 7, 2024

Cultural loss amid war’s devastation

The Ottoman cannon, an invaluable cultural treasure, was removed from the museum as Aleppo descended into a warzone. As the conflict raged, the cannon was repurposed for battle, serving as a grim symbol of the widespread destruction war brings to cultural heritage.

The video of the cannon firing highlights the shocking fate of this historical artifact, now turned weapon of war.

Ottoman artillery: Engineering mastery across centuries

Ottoman artillery has a long and storied history, with the first use of cannons in the late 14th century. Though the exact timeline remains debated, it is widely believed that the Ottomans deployed cannons in key battles such as the Battle of Kosovo in 1389 and the Battle of Varna in 1444. The Ottomans’ artillery was known for its enormous size and formidable firepower, playing a crucial role in their military success.

The Ottoman Dardanelles Gun, used in the 1809 Dardanelles operation, is one of the most famous examples of Ottoman artillery. Capable of firing 1,000-pound marble projectiles, it showcased the scale and power of Ottoman artillery. These bombards were not only designed for sieges but were also a key factor in major victories.

Ottoman cannons: Weapons that changed warfare

One of the most iconic examples of Ottoman artillery was the bronze bombards used during the 1453 Siege of Constantinople. These massive cannons, which weighed up to 19 tons, required a crew of 200 men to operate.

Despite being able to fire only seven times a day, their impact on the outcome of the siege was monumental. The fall of Constantinople marked a pivotal moment in history, with artillery playing a decisive role in breaching the city’s walls and ending the Byzantine Empire.

From museum to civil war: Struggle to preserve Syria’s heritage

While the Syrian civil war has officially ended, the legacy of the conflict continues to impact the preservation of Syria’s cultural heritage. Many ancient sites and artifacts were lost or damaged during the war, including items like the Ottoman cannon.

The theft and destruction of these cultural treasures underline the lasting effects of the war on Syria’s rich history and its ability to protect such invaluable assets.