Sensational discovery in Syria: 1500-year-old tomb complex found
10 June 2025 18:49
In the Syrian province of Idlib, which has been severely affected by the war, construction workers accidentally stumbled upon a Byzantine tomb complex estimated to be 1500 years old. This is reported by The Independent, according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
The discovery was made in the city of Maarat al-Numan, located between Aleppo and Damascus. During the reconstruction of damaged buildings, workers noticed stone holes leading to ancient burials. Local residents then turned to the authorities, who sent an archaeological team to investigate the site.
Excavations showed that there are two burial chambers underground, each containing six stone tombs. A cross was carved on one of the columns, confirming the Byzantine origin of the complex.
What was found?
According to Hassan al-Ismail, director of the Idlib Antiquities Department, this discovery adds to the rich archaeological heritage of the region, which is home to more than 800 historical sites.
Historical context
The Byzantine Empire, which emerged in the fourth century, was a continuation of the Roman Empire with its capital in Constantinople (modern Istanbul). Its official religion was Christianity, which explains the symbolism of the cross in the tombs.
In northwestern Syria, there are the so-called “Dead Cities” – the remains of Byzantine settlements containing the ruins of stone houses, basilicas, tombs, and streets with colonnades.
Threats to archaeological heritage
Years of war have caused significant damage to Syria’s archaeological sites. They suffered not only from bombing, but also from looting and unauthorized excavations.
This discovery is a reminder of the need to preserve cultural heritage that can be lost to conflict and destruction.
