Since October 2023, The Orkney News has been reporting on the devastating human toll of the destruction of Gaza. The vigils held every Saturday in Orkney have also been documented, calling for an immediate ceasefire and the protection of innocent lives. However, the destruction of historical and cultural sites in Gaza has received less attention but is equally tragic.
UNESCO Monitoring and Reporting
The obliteration of structures and sites of historical significance in Gaza is being monitored by UNESCO. As of November 29, 2024, UNESCO has verified damage to 75 sites since October 7, 2023, including religious sites, buildings of historical and artistic interest, monuments, and archaeological sites.
Saint Hilarion Monastery
One of the sites that have been damaged is the ruins of Saint Hilarion, one of the oldest monasteries in the Middle East. The monastery, founded in ca. 340, bears unique testimony to the emergence of Christianity in the region.
Anthedon Harbour
Anthedon, the first known seaport of Gaza, represents a significant archaeological site that reflects the rich historical and archaeological evolution in the region. The presence of massive earthen structures and underwater heritage makes Anthedon an excellent candidate for the World Heritage list.
The Commonwealth Gaza War Cemetery
The Gaza War Cemetery contains thousands of Commonwealth burials from the First and Second World Wars. The majority of burials are of Allied soldiers who lost their lives in the battles of Gaza in 1917.
Old Al-Omari Mosque in Jabalia
Also known as Gaza’s Great Mosque, it is the oldest mosque in the region, built around 700 CE. The mosque was severely damaged, reflecting the erasure of Palestinian archaeological heritage.
As well as the destruction of historically significant sites, museums and their collections have been destroyed or looted. UNESCO has listed numerous sites that have been damaged or destroyed, highlighting the cultural devastation in Gaza.
Gaza, historical sites, UNESCO, cultural heritage, destruction
