This volume is the result of the Cambridge Annual Student Archaeology Conference (CASA), held at ... more This volume is the result of the Cambridge Annual Student Archaeology Conference (CASA), held at the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research from September 13–15, 2019. CASA developed out of the Annual Student Archaeology Conference, first held in 2013, which was formed by students at Cambridge, Oxford, Durham and York. In 2017, Cambridge became the home of the conference and the name was changed accordingly. The conference was developed to give students (from undergraduate to PhD candidates) in archaeology and related fields the chance to present their research to a broad audience. The theme for the 2019 conference was New Frontiers in Archaeology and this volume presents papers from a wide range of topics such as new geographical areas of research, using museum collections and legacy data, new ways to teach archaeology and new scientific or theoretic paradigms. From hunting and gathering in the Neolithic to the return of artefacts to Turkey, the papers contained within show a great variety in both geography and chronology. Discussions revolve around access to data, the role of excavation in today’s archaeology, the role of local communities in archaeological interpretation and how we can ask new questions of old data. This volume presents 18 papers arranged in the six sessions with the two posters in their thematic sessions.
Proceedings of the 9th International Congress on the Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, 2016
This paper presents a preliminary assessment of the ceramic sequence from the Rowanduz Archaeolog... more This paper presents a preliminary assessment of the ceramic sequence from the Rowanduz Archaeological Program of Boston University. The ceramic collections from the Kurdistan Regional Government, Soran Directorate of Archaeology were studied and the resulting sequence spans the Neolithic to modern times.
The Chalcolithic period in Mesopotamia and Iran (c.6000–4000 b.c.e.) is characterised by larger c... more The Chalcolithic period in Mesopotamia and Iran (c.6000–4000 b.c.e.) is characterised by larger cities replacing small farming settlements, technological developments including wheel thrown pottery and copper metal working, and people establishing long distance trade networks. The Halaf horizon (5900–5100 b.c.e.) developed out of the local late pottery Neolithic tradition and is found throughout western Syria, southern Turkey, and northern and central Iraq. This archaeological culture is defined by a finely painted pottery, dryland farming, round and rectangular houses, and the use of stamp seals. A comparable ceramic horizon, the J-ware horizon (5200–4700 b.c.e.) arose in the Mahidasht and Kermanshah valleys of Iran. The J-ware ceramics are finely painted, possibly deriving from the Halaf tradition, but also slipped and burnished. The Rowanduz Archaeological…
Both trade and migration have been used by archaeologists to explain change in material culture. ... more Both trade and migration have been used by archaeologists to explain change in material culture. In particular, archaeologists have interpreted changes in the types of ceramics recovered at archaeological sites as evidence of either regional trade and/or the migration of people into the area. The appearance of one particular ceramic type, Red-Black Burnished Ware (RBBW) in the Ancient Near East circa 2500 B.C. has been explained as resulting from either trade or the migration of people. RBBW is distinct from the local wares, but appears similar to ceramics found in Transcaucasia (present day Republic of Georgia) (Rothman 2002). One site at which RBBW is found is the site of Tell Qarqur, Syria. This paper will examine the forms of pottery vessels recovered at Tell Qarqur to determine their function in order to demonstrate whether the occurrence of this pottery at the site can be attributed to trade or migration.
The study of pottery can be used to provide insight into past cultures. Pottery is ubiquitous on ... more The study of pottery can be used to provide insight into past cultures. Pottery is ubiquitous on archaeological sites in the Near East and because of its durability; fragments often survive longer than artifacts made from less-durable materials. This study addresses the use of pottery to answer the question: Were Mesopotamia and Elam trading partners from 3000 to 2500 B.C.? Located in present day Iraq, Mesopotamia has evidence for early domestication of various plants and animals but was lacking certain types of semi-precious stones and ore for metal production. Elam, in present day Iran, possessed sources of both stones and metals that Mesopotamia did not have. The city state of Uruk in southern Mesopotamia and Susa in southeastern Elam went through similar social changes at about the same time. This makes for an easier comparison of trade between Mesopotamia and Elam. Uruk and Susa changed from smaller agricultural villages to massive city-states with evidence for increased class ...
This volume is the result of the Cambridge Annual Student Archaeology Conference (CASA), held at ... more This volume is the result of the Cambridge Annual Student Archaeology Conference (CASA), held at the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research from September 13–15, 2019. CASA developed out of the Annual Student Archaeology Conference, first held in 2013, which was formed by students at Cambridge, Oxford, Durham and York. In 2017, Cambridge became the home of the conference and the name was changed accordingly. The conference was developed to give students (from undergraduate to PhD candidates) in archaeology and related fields the chance to present their research to a broad audience. The theme for the 2019 conference was New Frontiers in Archaeology and this volume presents papers from a wide range of topics such as new geographical areas of research, using museum collections and legacy data, new ways to teach archaeology and new scientific or theoretic paradigms. From hunting and gathering in the Neolithic to the return of artefacts to Turkey, the papers contained within show...
The Chalcolithic period in Mesopotamia and Iran (ca. 6000–4000 B.C.E) is characterized by larger ... more The Chalcolithic period in Mesopotamia and Iran (ca. 6000–4000 B.C.E) is characterized by larger cities replacing small farming settlements, technological developments including wheel thrown pottery and copper metal working, and people establishing long distance trade networks. The Halaf horizon (5900–5100 B.C.E) developed out of the local late pottery Neolithic tradition and is found throughout western Syria, southern Turkey, and northern and central Iraq. This archaeological culture is defined by a finely painted pottery, dryland farming, round and rectangular houses, and the use of stamp seals. A comparable ceramic horizon, the J-ware horizon (5200–4700 B.C.E) arose in the Mahidasht and Kermanshah valleys of Iran. The J-ware ceramics are finely painted, possibly deriving from the Halaf tradition, but also slipped and burnished. The Rowanduz Archaeological Program’s (RAP) excavations elucidate links between northern Iraq and northern Iran from the Chalcolithic to the modern period. This paper explores the relationship between the Halaf and J-ware traditions at Banahilk, recently re-excavated by RAP, and the larger contacts during the Chalcolithic.
Ur of the Chaldees: A Virtual Vision of Woolley’s Excavations, a joint project between the Penn M... more Ur of the Chaldees: A Virtual Vision of Woolley’s Excavations, a joint project between the Penn Museum and the British Museum, has led to the re‐analysis of many objects from Ur. Ur-Online.org, the final product of this project, brings together modern and archival descriptions along with field records into one digital platform. As part of this project, conservators and researchers at both museums analyzed objects in order to gather modern information. At the Penn Museum this involved recording modern measurements and descriptions, taking new photographs, and conducting a condition assessment of all of the artifacts outlined in the proposal. Some objects were selected for further analysis. A petrographic study of clay objects, a portable X-ray fluorescence (PXRF) study of obsidian, Infrared Reflectance and X‐rays of various materials, and photomicrographs of pseudomorphs have all been performed in the past three years. This paper explains these studies and their preliminary results, and shows how Ur-Online.org can be used to display these results. The scientific analysis of these materials can be used to refine what we know about Woolley’s excavations and the ancient city of Ur.
This paper presents a preliminary assessment of the ceramic sequence from the Rowanduz Archaeolog... more This paper presents a preliminary assessment of the ceramic sequence from the Rowanduz Archaeological Program of Boston University. The ceramic collections from the Kurdistan Regional Government, Soran Directorate of Archaeology were studied and the resulting sequence spans the Neolithic to modern times.
The Future of the Past: From Amphipolis to Mosul, New Approaches to Cultural Heritage Preservation in the Eastern Mediterranean , 2016
Today the Kurdistan Region of Iraq is distinguished by its economic prosperity and relative secur... more Today the Kurdistan Region of Iraq is distinguished by its economic prosperity and relative security, but its history demonstrates that it is not immune to the ravages of warfare. Since pre-historic times, the people of this region have been known for their fierce independence and strong tribal ties. In 2013, the Rowanduz Archaeological Program (RAP) was granted a 5-year permit for survey and excavation in the Soran District, located in the heart of this region. RAP has discovered evidence of warfare beginning around 800BC and stretching to the present day. Surveys in the area have also uncovered changes in the landscapes, like deforestation and abandoned villages from conflicts in the 1980s and 90s. This paper will present the material RAP has uncovered relating to the impact of conflicts on the archaeology and landscape of Iraqi Kurdistan.
This volume is the result of the Cambridge Annual Student Archaeology Conference (CASA), held at ... more This volume is the result of the Cambridge Annual Student Archaeology Conference (CASA), held at the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research from September 13–15, 2019. CASA developed out of the Annual Student Archaeology Conference, first held in 2013, which was formed by students at Cambridge, Oxford, Durham and York. In 2017, Cambridge became the home of the conference and the name was changed accordingly. The conference was developed to give students (from undergraduate to PhD candidates) in archaeology and related fields the chance to present their research to a broad audience. The theme for the 2019 conference was New Frontiers in Archaeology and this volume presents papers from a wide range of topics such as new geographical areas of research, using museum collections and legacy data, new ways to teach archaeology and new scientific or theoretic paradigms. From hunting and gathering in the Neolithic to the return of artefacts to Turkey, the papers contained within show a great variety in both geography and chronology. Discussions revolve around access to data, the role of excavation in today’s archaeology, the role of local communities in archaeological interpretation and how we can ask new questions of old data. This volume presents 18 papers arranged in the six sessions with the two posters in their thematic sessions.
Proceedings of the 9th International Congress on the Archaeology of the Ancient Near East, 2016
This paper presents a preliminary assessment of the ceramic sequence from the Rowanduz Archaeolog... more This paper presents a preliminary assessment of the ceramic sequence from the Rowanduz Archaeological Program of Boston University. The ceramic collections from the Kurdistan Regional Government, Soran Directorate of Archaeology were studied and the resulting sequence spans the Neolithic to modern times.
The Chalcolithic period in Mesopotamia and Iran (c.6000–4000 b.c.e.) is characterised by larger c... more The Chalcolithic period in Mesopotamia and Iran (c.6000–4000 b.c.e.) is characterised by larger cities replacing small farming settlements, technological developments including wheel thrown pottery and copper metal working, and people establishing long distance trade networks. The Halaf horizon (5900–5100 b.c.e.) developed out of the local late pottery Neolithic tradition and is found throughout western Syria, southern Turkey, and northern and central Iraq. This archaeological culture is defined by a finely painted pottery, dryland farming, round and rectangular houses, and the use of stamp seals. A comparable ceramic horizon, the J-ware horizon (5200–4700 b.c.e.) arose in the Mahidasht and Kermanshah valleys of Iran. The J-ware ceramics are finely painted, possibly deriving from the Halaf tradition, but also slipped and burnished. The Rowanduz Archaeological…
Both trade and migration have been used by archaeologists to explain change in material culture. ... more Both trade and migration have been used by archaeologists to explain change in material culture. In particular, archaeologists have interpreted changes in the types of ceramics recovered at archaeological sites as evidence of either regional trade and/or the migration of people into the area. The appearance of one particular ceramic type, Red-Black Burnished Ware (RBBW) in the Ancient Near East circa 2500 B.C. has been explained as resulting from either trade or the migration of people. RBBW is distinct from the local wares, but appears similar to ceramics found in Transcaucasia (present day Republic of Georgia) (Rothman 2002). One site at which RBBW is found is the site of Tell Qarqur, Syria. This paper will examine the forms of pottery vessels recovered at Tell Qarqur to determine their function in order to demonstrate whether the occurrence of this pottery at the site can be attributed to trade or migration.
The study of pottery can be used to provide insight into past cultures. Pottery is ubiquitous on ... more The study of pottery can be used to provide insight into past cultures. Pottery is ubiquitous on archaeological sites in the Near East and because of its durability; fragments often survive longer than artifacts made from less-durable materials. This study addresses the use of pottery to answer the question: Were Mesopotamia and Elam trading partners from 3000 to 2500 B.C.? Located in present day Iraq, Mesopotamia has evidence for early domestication of various plants and animals but was lacking certain types of semi-precious stones and ore for metal production. Elam, in present day Iran, possessed sources of both stones and metals that Mesopotamia did not have. The city state of Uruk in southern Mesopotamia and Susa in southeastern Elam went through similar social changes at about the same time. This makes for an easier comparison of trade between Mesopotamia and Elam. Uruk and Susa changed from smaller agricultural villages to massive city-states with evidence for increased class ...
This volume is the result of the Cambridge Annual Student Archaeology Conference (CASA), held at ... more This volume is the result of the Cambridge Annual Student Archaeology Conference (CASA), held at the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research from September 13–15, 2019. CASA developed out of the Annual Student Archaeology Conference, first held in 2013, which was formed by students at Cambridge, Oxford, Durham and York. In 2017, Cambridge became the home of the conference and the name was changed accordingly. The conference was developed to give students (from undergraduate to PhD candidates) in archaeology and related fields the chance to present their research to a broad audience. The theme for the 2019 conference was New Frontiers in Archaeology and this volume presents papers from a wide range of topics such as new geographical areas of research, using museum collections and legacy data, new ways to teach archaeology and new scientific or theoretic paradigms. From hunting and gathering in the Neolithic to the return of artefacts to Turkey, the papers contained within show...
The Chalcolithic period in Mesopotamia and Iran (ca. 6000–4000 B.C.E) is characterized by larger ... more The Chalcolithic period in Mesopotamia and Iran (ca. 6000–4000 B.C.E) is characterized by larger cities replacing small farming settlements, technological developments including wheel thrown pottery and copper metal working, and people establishing long distance trade networks. The Halaf horizon (5900–5100 B.C.E) developed out of the local late pottery Neolithic tradition and is found throughout western Syria, southern Turkey, and northern and central Iraq. This archaeological culture is defined by a finely painted pottery, dryland farming, round and rectangular houses, and the use of stamp seals. A comparable ceramic horizon, the J-ware horizon (5200–4700 B.C.E) arose in the Mahidasht and Kermanshah valleys of Iran. The J-ware ceramics are finely painted, possibly deriving from the Halaf tradition, but also slipped and burnished. The Rowanduz Archaeological Program’s (RAP) excavations elucidate links between northern Iraq and northern Iran from the Chalcolithic to the modern period. This paper explores the relationship between the Halaf and J-ware traditions at Banahilk, recently re-excavated by RAP, and the larger contacts during the Chalcolithic.
Ur of the Chaldees: A Virtual Vision of Woolley’s Excavations, a joint project between the Penn M... more Ur of the Chaldees: A Virtual Vision of Woolley’s Excavations, a joint project between the Penn Museum and the British Museum, has led to the re‐analysis of many objects from Ur. Ur-Online.org, the final product of this project, brings together modern and archival descriptions along with field records into one digital platform. As part of this project, conservators and researchers at both museums analyzed objects in order to gather modern information. At the Penn Museum this involved recording modern measurements and descriptions, taking new photographs, and conducting a condition assessment of all of the artifacts outlined in the proposal. Some objects were selected for further analysis. A petrographic study of clay objects, a portable X-ray fluorescence (PXRF) study of obsidian, Infrared Reflectance and X‐rays of various materials, and photomicrographs of pseudomorphs have all been performed in the past three years. This paper explains these studies and their preliminary results, and shows how Ur-Online.org can be used to display these results. The scientific analysis of these materials can be used to refine what we know about Woolley’s excavations and the ancient city of Ur.
This paper presents a preliminary assessment of the ceramic sequence from the Rowanduz Archaeolog... more This paper presents a preliminary assessment of the ceramic sequence from the Rowanduz Archaeological Program of Boston University. The ceramic collections from the Kurdistan Regional Government, Soran Directorate of Archaeology were studied and the resulting sequence spans the Neolithic to modern times.
The Future of the Past: From Amphipolis to Mosul, New Approaches to Cultural Heritage Preservation in the Eastern Mediterranean , 2016
Today the Kurdistan Region of Iraq is distinguished by its economic prosperity and relative secur... more Today the Kurdistan Region of Iraq is distinguished by its economic prosperity and relative security, but its history demonstrates that it is not immune to the ravages of warfare. Since pre-historic times, the people of this region have been known for their fierce independence and strong tribal ties. In 2013, the Rowanduz Archaeological Program (RAP) was granted a 5-year permit for survey and excavation in the Soran District, located in the heart of this region. RAP has discovered evidence of warfare beginning around 800BC and stretching to the present day. Surveys in the area have also uncovered changes in the landscapes, like deforestation and abandoned villages from conflicts in the 1980s and 90s. This paper will present the material RAP has uncovered relating to the impact of conflicts on the archaeology and landscape of Iraqi Kurdistan.
2018 began with increased military activity in Syria, with the dramatic entry of Turkish forces i... more 2018 began with increased military activity in Syria, with the dramatic entry of Turkish forces into Aleppo Governorate, increasing aerial bombardment and territorial shifts in Idlib, Hama and Rif Dimashq Governorates, and high numbers of civilian casualties. The Syrian conflict seemed to have quieted slightly towards the end of 2017, but it dramatically escalated in January, and cultural heritage was severely impacted. We predict Syria will continue to experience high levels of cultural heritage damage, destruction, and deterioration in 2018.
Satellite imagery shows ongoing looting at the site of Tell Bezzam near Hama, Syria.
The DGAM re... more Satellite imagery shows ongoing looting at the site of Tell Bezzam near Hama, Syria.
The DGAM reports ongoing looting in the Dier ez-Zor region of Syria. Russian airstrikes allegedly struck multiple sites in the Dead Cities region.
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a brief, illustrated report of the damage to the site of Shinshara in Syria.
ISIL advances into rebel held areas of Syria in the wake of the Russian air campaign in support of SARG forces.
ISIL intentionally destroys the Arch of Triumph in Palmyra, Syria.
ISIL supporters demolish the Abdullah ibn Mubarak Shrine and Mosque in Hit, Iraq.
The DGAM reports illicit excavation at multiple sites in southern Quneitra Governorate of Syria.
... more The DGAM reports illicit excavation at multiple sites in southern Quneitra Governorate of Syria.
DigitalGlobe satellite imagery shows new constructions built near the site of Heraqla in Syria.
The DGAM reports looting and damage at multiple sites in Hama Governorate of Syria.
ISIL executes three captives tied to the Colonnaded Street in ancient Palmyra, Syria.
Russia conducted airstrikes near the archaeological sites of Palmyra in Homs Governorate at Tell ... more Russia conducted airstrikes near the archaeological sites of Palmyra in Homs Governorate at Tell al-Hara in Daraa Governorate.
Newly-released DigitalGlobe satellite imagery reveals evidence of conflict-related looting at the site of Rasha el-Qibliye.
The DGAM reported damage to the site of Al Bara, which forms part of the Dead Cities region of Syria (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0146). The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a report on the damage as well.
On November 8, the DGAM reported that some media outlets had released information on an alleged tunnel bombing west of the main (south) entrance of the Aleppo Citadel. The DGAM’s regional office in Aleppo later verified the report and localized the damage to the open area between the Citadel’s main gate and the Khan Shouneh. ASOR CHI is currently gathering additional details.
ASOR CHI in-country sources report that the Great Mosque of Maraat Al-Numan was damaged by airstr... more ASOR CHI in-country sources report that the Great Mosque of Maraat Al-Numan was damaged by airstrikes.
A tunnel bomb damaged the main entrance to the Aleppo Citadel and the immediately adjacent Khan al-Shouna (var. Shouneh, Shoune).
The Raqqa Museum was reportedly struck by Russian airstrikes.
ASOR CHI in-country sources report new roads are being constructed within the walls of ancient Nineveh.
A suicide bomber attacked a Shia mosque in Sadr City outside Baghdad. Gunmen blew up the Abu Hanifa Mosque in Muqdadiyah.
Syrian military forces, with the assistance of Russian airstrikes and pro-government forces, advance towards Palmyra.
Russian airstrikes continue as French forces begin intensive bombing campaigns in the wake of a terrorist attack in Paris, which also resulted in an expansion of US targets to include oil fields and tanker truck convoys.
A report by The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative details to Ebla in Syria (ASOR CHI Incid... more A report by The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative details to Ebla in Syria (ASOR CHI Incidient Report SHI 15-0150 and Appended TDA Report).
In-country sources in Syria report on the condition of Tell al-Atarib in Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0151) and the Tomb of Omar Bin Abdul Aziz in Hama Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0152).
ISIL releases video of executions at Qaalat al-‐Rahbeh (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0153).
Russian airstrikes and clashes between ISIL militants and pro-‐Assad forces in and near Tadmor/Palmyra cause extensive damage in the area (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0155).
SARG airstrikes continue in the governorates of Damascus, and Homs. Russian airstrikes continue in the governorates of Aleppo, Damascus, Hama, Homs, Idlib, and Latakia.
Religious heritage sites were damaged by airstrikes in the regions of Hama (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-‐0154), Aleppo (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-‐0156), and Idlib (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-‐0157)
Ongoing airstrikes on the city of Aleppo, including portions of the Old City, caused extensive damage and high civilian casualties.
Iraqi armed forces continue their efforts to retake the city of Ramadi from ISIL militants.
The ... more Iraqi armed forces continue their efforts to retake the city of Ramadi from ISIL militants.
The Al Kabir Mosque in Hamima near Aleppo was damaged by airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0158).
Sheikh Yassine Mosque in the village of Al Najiyeh in Idlib Governorate was damaged by airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0159). The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a brief, illustrated report on the damage to the site.
An ISIL-affiliated suicide bomber attacked the Ahlu al-Baiyt Mosque in Baghdad (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0100).
Airstrikes land near the Mosque Tekkiye al-Suleimaniye and National Museum of Damascus (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0161).
SARG airstrikes cause partial damage to the Bilal Mosque and Abi Thar Al Ghafari Mosque in Tadmor, Syria (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0160).
The DGAM reports on-going illegal excavations, construction, and vandalism in several Dead Cities (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0162).
The DGAM reports ongoing illegal excavation at sites in southern Quneitra, particularly at Majduliyah (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0163).
Airstrikes damage the Al Kabir Mosque and Al Zawyeh Mosque in Saraqib in Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0164). The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a brief, illustrated report on the damage to the Al Zawyeh Mosque in Saraqib.
The DGAM reports ongoing illegal excavation at sites in Jebel Wastani, in particular that of Kefert Aqab in Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0165).
The Bosra al-Sham Department of Antiquities reported that SARG forces dropped barrel bombs on the Ayyubid Citadel and Roman Theater in Bosra (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0166).
DigitalGlobe satellite imagery shows ongoing military occupation of Tell Jifar near Apamea (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0167) in Hama Governorate and Tell Jindires in the Aleppo countryside (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0168).
ISIL forced prisoners to destroy cemeteries in Mosul (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0101).
The... more ISIL forced prisoners to destroy cemeteries in Mosul (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0101).
The Bosra al-Sham Department of Antiquities posted additional photographs of the damage to the citadel caused by recent SARG barrel bombings (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0166 UPDATE).
Russian airstrikes damaged or destroyed a mosque in Kansafra, Jebel Zawiya in Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0169).
Regime forces severely damaged the Al Turkman Mosque in Jisr Al Shoughour city in Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0170). The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a report on the damage.
Russian airstrikes caused severe damage to Batul Mosque in the Zebdiya neighborhood of Aleppo (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0171).
ISIL bombed ten Assyrian homes and a monastery in the village of Tel Keppe in northern Iraq (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0102).
ISIL destroyed and looted multiple sites to create military positions against Iraqi forces around the ancient site of Qalat Sharqat, also known as Ashur (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0103).
The Omar bin al-Khattab Mosque in Ma’arat el-Artiq in Aleppo Governorate was damaged by a Russian airstrike (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0001).
Three Sunni mosques in Iraq, including the Ammar bin Yasser Mosque and al-Fath al-Mubeen/Fateh Mosque in Babil Governorate, were bombed and partially destroyed (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0001) .
Shia militias attacked several Sunni mosques in the city of Muqdadiya, Diyala Governorate (ASOR C... more Shia militias attacked several Sunni mosques in the city of Muqdadiya, Diyala Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0002).
Russian airstrikes damaged the interior of Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Bayanoun Town in Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0002).
Suspected Russian airstrikes damaged two mosques in Aleppo city including the Abdullah bin Abbas Mosque and the Agha Jaq Mosque (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0003).
DGAM reported illegal excavation, looting, and illegal construction in Quneitra Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0004).
Regime airstrikes damaged the Aisha Mosque in the city of Deir ez-Zor (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0005).
Regime shelling severely damaged Al Hadi Mosque in Babeis Town in Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0006).
Suspected Russian airstrikes damaged al-Kabir Mosque in Mu’arrassat al Khan Town in Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0007).
Regime airstrikes targeted Al Kabir Mosque in Al Mouzra village in Idlib Governorate, causing severe damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0008).
Regime warplanes fired missiles on al-Kabir Mosque in Deir al-Asafir village in Damascus Governorate, causing severe damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0009).
Regime shelling damaged an unidentified mosque in Zamalka in Damascus Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0010).
Opposition forces shelled the First Armenian Evangelical Church of Emmanuel in Azizeyah Neighborhood in Aleppo City in Aleppo Governorate, causing severe damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report 16-0011).
An intentional fire caused extensive damage to Imam Hassan Shrine in the district of Laylan, sout... more An intentional fire caused extensive damage to Imam Hassan Shrine in the district of Laylan, southeast of the city of Kirkuk, Kirkuk Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0003).
Suspected Russian airstrikes damaged Al Nour Mosque in the town of Al Boleel, Deir ez-Zor Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0012).
DGAM reported structural damage to the Daraa National Museum caused by mortar shells fired by armed groups (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0013).
Regime and Russian airstrikes cause damage to Hinni Mosque in the Old City of Raqqa, Raqqa Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0014).
Russian airstrikes damaged Abu Bakr Al Sedeiq Mosque in the city of Al Bab, Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0015).
Regime airstrikes caused damage to five columns in the archaeological site of Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0016). ISIL carried out three bombings near the Sayyida Zeinab Shrine, Damascus Governorate, causing no reported damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0017).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative produced two reports on the Al-Ma’aara Museum and the Citadel in the city of Ma’arat al-Numan, Idlib Governorate (Appended TDA Reports).
Recent photographs and video of the Aleppo Citadel show the severity of the damage to the area (A... more Recent photographs and video of the Aleppo Citadel show the severity of the damage to the area (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0018).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative produced a report on the damage to the Al Adiliah Mosque located southwest of the Aleppo Citadel (Appended TDA Report).
Russian airstrikes damage the al-Hamza Mosque in Anadan, Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0019).
SARG airstrikes damage the Sidiq Mosque in Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0020).
The Raqqa Cultural Center in Raqqa Governorate hit by airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0021).
Russian bombardment damages the Al-Khayrat Mosque in Aleppo (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0022).
DGAM shows evidence of damage to Qalaat Saladin in Latakia Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0023).
SARG airstrikes damage the al-Farooq Mosque in Masqan (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0024) and the Al-Kabir Mosque in Hayyan (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0025) in Aleppo Governorate.
SARG missiles allegedly damage columns in the Roman theater in Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0026).
DigitalGlobe imagery shows Nineveh (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0097 UPDATE) and the Nebi Yunus Mosque Complex (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0004) in Mosul further damaged by development.
SARG airstrikes damage the Al-Nasr Mosque in Gharnata, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0027).
SARG bombardment damages the Abu Bakr al-Sideiq in Kafr Zaita, Hama Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0028).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative produced two reports on the archaeological site of Apamea, Idlib Governorate (Appended TDA Report).
The Malthai Rock Reliefs in Dahuk were vandalized by graffiti (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-00... more The Malthai Rock Reliefs in Dahuk were vandalized by graffiti (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0005).
Two ISIL suicide bombings damaged the Shia Rasul al-Azam Mosque in Baghdad (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0006).
An ISIL suicide bomber attacked a Shia mosque in Muqdadiyah, Diyala Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0007).
Russian airstrikes damaged the al-Souq Mosque in Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0029).
Aerial bombardment damages two mosques in the city of Aleppo (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0030).
A series of four suicide bombings occurred near the Shrine of Sayyida Zainab in Damascus Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0031).
ISIL militants damaged or destroyed at least 19 Assyrian churches along the Khabur River in Hasakah Governorate since early 2015 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0032).
Russian airstrikes damaged a mosque in Dar Ta’izzah, Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0033).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative produced two condition assessments on heritage assets in Jaradeh and Serjilla in Idlib Governorate (Appended TDA Reports #1 and #2).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative also conducted a rapid site assessment to document damage caused by Russian airstrikes around the site of Ebla (Appended TDA Report #3).
Recent video shows the damage to the al-Kabir Mosque in Hayan, Aleppo Governorate, which was dest... more Recent video shows the damage to the al-Kabir Mosque in Hayan, Aleppo Governorate, which was destroyed on February 10, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0025 UPDATE).
DGAM reports illegal ongoing excavations at the Dead Cities of Dahes, Babisqa, and Dar Qita in the Jebel Barisha area of Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0034).
Several sources reported damage to the archaeological area of Palmyra, the Qalaat Shirkuh, and the Sayyeda Khadija Mosque in modern Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0035).
Video footage shows damage to two churches in Raqqa, which were first damaged in September 2013, which are now occupied by ISIL (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0036).
A new video of the Abi Thar Al Ghafari Mosque in Tadmor, Homs Governorate, reportedly struck by SARG missiles in December 2015, shows the extent of the damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0160 UPDATE).
DGAM reports illegal excavation with heavy machinery has caused significant damage at the archaeological site of Tell Ajaja in al-Hasakah Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0037).
Coalition airstrikes caused extensive damage to al-Farouq Mosque in Kubaysah, al-Anbar Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0008).
SARG and Russian forces capture Palmyra from ISIL militants, providing the most comprehensive pho... more SARG and Russian forces capture Palmyra from ISIL militants, providing the most comprehensive photographic documentation of the historic site and its museum since the ISIL occupation started in May 2015 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0041, SHI 16-0042, and SHI 16-0043).
The Uthman bin Affan Mosque and Bilal ibn Rabia Mosque in Tadmor, Homs Governorate was damaged, reportedly by Russian airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0039).
Two sites in the city of Raqqa, a market near Hattin Cemetery and an area near al-Imam al-Nawawi Mosque, were damaged reportedly by Russian airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0038).
The al-Sayyida Aisha Mosque in the city of Aleppo, Aleppo Governorate was damaged reportedly by Russian airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0040).
Reportedly damage the Al Aisha Mosque in Mosul, Ninawa Governorate reportedly by US-led Coalition airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0009).
New video and photographs emerge of Deir Mar Elian Monastery in al-Qaryatayn emerge after pro-reg... more New video and photographs emerge of Deir Mar Elian Monastery in al-Qaryatayn emerge after pro-regime forces captured the area (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0123 UPDATE).
New video footage of Bilal Mosque in the city of Tadmor, showing extensive damage, was recorded on April 5, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0160 UPDATE).
New footage shows ongoing looting at the site of Rafid on April 9, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0004 UPDATE).
Images from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Palmyra and the museum continue to emerge as civilians gain access the site (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0041 UPDATE and ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0043 UPDATE).
DigitalGlobe satellite imagery of Palmyra from March 30, 2016 shows many more tombs have been destroyed than previously reported (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0044).
SARG airstrikes damage four mosques in Rif Dimashq Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0045).
The al-Nur Mosque in the city of Raqqa was damaged, reportedly by US-led coalition airstrikes, on April 1, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0046).
Looting and illegal excavations in the Bosra Roman ruins continues (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0047).
The al-Kabir Mosque in the town of Ma’arat al-Numan, Idlib Governorate was damaged by a car bomb (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0048).
The Church of the Child Jesus in Tadmor, Homs Governorate was damaged (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0049).
The Sheikh Saeed Mosque in Saraqib, Idlib Governorate was reportedly damaged by SARG airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0050).
A photograph shows damage to al-Saha Mosque in Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Repor... more A photograph shows damage to al-Saha Mosque in Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0051).
A church converted into a gym by ISIL militants in Shaddadi, Al Hasakah Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0052).
A reported SARG airstrike damaged the al-Gharbi Mosque in Tamanaa, Hama Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0053).
An alleged SARG airstrike severely damaged the Khaled Bin Al Walid Mosque in al-Eis, Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0054).
SARG forces reportedly occupy the al-Ghoufran Mosque in Damascus, Damascus Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0055).
An alleged SARG airstrike struck an area near al-Firdous Mosque and a car bomb of unknown origin detonated near al-Nur Mosque in Raqqa, Raqqa Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0056).
Reported SARG airstrikes damaged Uthman bin Affan Mosque and al-Nur Mosque, severely damaging both mosques in Ter Maalah, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0057).
An electrical fire caused severe damage to Suq Asruniyeh, Suq Meskiyeh, and Othman Bank in Old Damascus, Damascus Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0058).
A reported SARG airstrike damaged the Zaid bin Haritha Mosque in Aleppo, Aleppo Governorate on April 22, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0059).
ASOR CHI received confirmation that ISIL militants bulldozed several of the ancient gates of Nineveh in Mosul, Ninawa Governorate in mid-April (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0010).
The Malthai Rock Reliefs located in Dohuk Governorate were vandalized for a second time (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0011).
Shelling of unknown origin damaged al-Firdous Mosque in Fallujah, Al Anbar Governorate on April 15, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0012).
The thesis presents a stylistic and technological study on Western Asian ceramics dating from 100... more The thesis presents a stylistic and technological study on Western Asian ceramics dating from 1000–1500 CE. The production and consumption of ceramics is used as a proxy to explore how social practices at the local level were formulated within the broader framework of Islam. The Islamic world has been studied as a relatively cohesive whole, due to the perceived connectivity of religion. This top-down approach favors elites (economic or political), larger cities, and precious materials (silk, porcelain, metals, etc.). This bias is mirrored in archaeological research which tends to focus on large palaces/castles/mosques, capital and large cities, and prestige goods. This dissertation focuses on the full repertoire of ceramic assemblages, not just glazed wares, to emphasize the potters’ choices in creating the ceramics, as well as the consumers’ choices in acquiring and using the ceramics. Both choices (production and consumption) are influenced by a myriad of factors, including vessels’ function, environment, and socio-cultural contexts. For this dissertation, I have three main questions: (1) What is the range of ceramic technology and style across Western Asia in the Middle Islamic period? How can the study of ceramic technology elucidate the ceramic traditions existing at these sites/regions? What is the structure of ceramic craft organization in these areas? (2) How can the ceramic traditions in combination with social dimensions of ceramic production be used to connect sites, regions, and interregional areas? How does the consumption of ceramics indicate links between these areas? (3) What can the study of ceramic traditions in the Middle Islamic period tell us about the connections between rural areas and larger urban areas? This dissertation focuses on 12 ceramic assemblages from various sites across Western Asia, all dating from 1000 – 1500 CE. These ceramics are recovered from both survey and excavation of sites of different natures, including eight rural sites (Erbil Plain Archaeological Survey (seven sites), Firuzabad), three intermediate types of sites (Nippur, Hasanlu, Chal Tarkhan), and a capital city (Rayy). The majority of the assemblages are from rural sites, but a few are from non-rural sites to lend a comparative edge and help define what is and is not rural. The ceramics are analyzed using a combination of macroscopic observation, thin-section petrography, portable X-Ray fluorescence (pXRF), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR). These analyses are specifically selected to establish the potential provenience of the ceramics, reconstruct technical choices and social practices, and characterize production and consumption traditions. This area has been discussed as a homogenous whole (from 600 CE to present) under the assumption that the spread of Islam brought all areas under the larger cultural mainframe. However, this dissertation shows that there is heterogeneity in both ceramic consumption and production. The established overarching links do not seem to be influenced by the spread of Islam as the ceramic traditions identified (forms, fabrics, functions) also are present before the rise of Islam in these areas. This bottom-up approach marks significant contributions to Islamic Archaeology by shedding light on the diversity of dynamics that existed in local areas and among local populations and how these local dynamics play in the interconnected societies of Western Asia during the Middle Islamic period.
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Papers by Kyra Kaercher
Conference papers by Kyra Kaercher
The DGAM reports ongoing looting in the Dier ez-Zor region of Syria.
Russian airstrikes allegedly struck multiple sites in the Dead Cities region.
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a brief, illustrated report of the damage to the site of Shinshara in Syria.
ISIL advances into rebel held areas of Syria in the wake of the Russian air campaign in support of SARG forces.
ISIL intentionally destroys the Arch of Triumph in Palmyra, Syria.
ISIL supporters demolish the Abdullah ibn Mubarak Shrine and Mosque in Hit, Iraq.
DigitalGlobe satellite imagery shows new constructions built near the site of Heraqla in Syria.
The DGAM reports looting and damage at multiple sites in Hama Governorate of Syria.
ISIL executes three captives tied to the Colonnaded Street in ancient Palmyra, Syria.
Newly-released DigitalGlobe satellite imagery reveals evidence of conflict-related looting at the site of Rasha el-Qibliye.
The DGAM reported damage to the site of Al Bara, which forms part of the Dead Cities region of Syria (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0146). The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a report on the damage as well.
On November 8, the DGAM reported that some media outlets had released information on an alleged tunnel bombing west of the main (south) entrance of the Aleppo Citadel. The DGAM’s regional office in Aleppo later verified the report and localized the damage to the open area between the Citadel’s main gate and the Khan Shouneh. ASOR CHI is currently gathering additional details.
A tunnel bomb damaged the main entrance to the Aleppo Citadel and the immediately adjacent Khan al-Shouna (var. Shouneh, Shoune).
The Raqqa Museum was reportedly struck by Russian airstrikes.
ASOR CHI in-country sources report new roads are being constructed within the walls of ancient Nineveh.
A suicide bomber attacked a Shia mosque in Sadr City outside Baghdad.
Gunmen blew up the Abu Hanifa Mosque in Muqdadiyah.
Syrian military forces, with the assistance of Russian airstrikes and pro-government forces, advance towards Palmyra.
Russian airstrikes continue as French forces begin intensive bombing campaigns in the wake of a terrorist attack in Paris, which also resulted in an expansion of US targets to include oil fields and tanker truck convoys.
In-country sources in Syria report on the condition of Tell al-Atarib in Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0151) and the Tomb of Omar Bin Abdul Aziz in Hama Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0152).
ISIL releases video of executions at Qaalat al-‐Rahbeh (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0153).
Russian airstrikes and clashes between ISIL militants and pro-‐Assad forces in and near Tadmor/Palmyra cause extensive damage in the area (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0155).
SARG airstrikes continue in the governorates of Damascus, and Homs.
Russian airstrikes continue in the governorates of Aleppo, Damascus, Hama, Homs, Idlib, and Latakia.
Religious heritage sites were damaged by airstrikes in the regions of Hama (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-‐0154), Aleppo (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-‐0156), and Idlib (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-‐0157)
Ongoing airstrikes on the city of Aleppo, including portions of the Old City, caused extensive damage and high civilian casualties.
The Al Kabir Mosque in Hamima near Aleppo was damaged by airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0158).
Sheikh Yassine Mosque in the village of Al Najiyeh in Idlib Governorate was damaged by airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0159). The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a brief, illustrated report on the damage to the site.
An ISIL-affiliated suicide bomber attacked the Ahlu al-Baiyt Mosque in Baghdad (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0100).
Airstrikes land near the Mosque Tekkiye al-Suleimaniye and National Museum of Damascus (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0161).
SARG airstrikes cause partial damage to the Bilal Mosque and Abi Thar Al Ghafari Mosque in Tadmor, Syria (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0160).
The DGAM reports on-going illegal excavations, construction, and vandalism in several Dead Cities (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0162).
The DGAM reports ongoing illegal excavation at sites in southern Quneitra, particularly at Majduliyah (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0163).
Airstrikes damage the Al Kabir Mosque and Al Zawyeh Mosque in Saraqib in Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0164). The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a brief, illustrated report on the damage to the Al Zawyeh Mosque in Saraqib.
The DGAM reports ongoing illegal excavation at sites in Jebel Wastani, in particular that of Kefert Aqab in Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0165).
The Bosra al-Sham Department of Antiquities reported that SARG forces dropped barrel bombs on the Ayyubid Citadel and Roman Theater in Bosra (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0166).
DigitalGlobe satellite imagery shows ongoing military occupation of Tell Jifar near Apamea (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0167) in Hama Governorate and Tell Jindires in the Aleppo countryside (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0168).
The Bosra al-Sham Department of Antiquities posted additional photographs of the damage to the citadel caused by recent SARG barrel bombings (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0166 UPDATE).
Russian airstrikes damaged or destroyed a mosque in Kansafra, Jebel Zawiya in Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0169).
Regime forces severely damaged the Al Turkman Mosque in Jisr Al Shoughour city in Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0170). The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative has produced a report on the damage.
Russian airstrikes caused severe damage to Batul Mosque in the Zebdiya neighborhood of Aleppo (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0171).
ISIL bombed ten Assyrian homes and a monastery in the village of Tel Keppe in northern Iraq (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0102).
ISIL destroyed and looted multiple sites to create military positions against Iraqi forces around the ancient site of Qalat Sharqat, also known as Ashur (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0103).
The Omar bin al-Khattab Mosque in Ma’arat el-Artiq in Aleppo Governorate was damaged by a Russian airstrike (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0001).
Three Sunni mosques in Iraq, including the Ammar bin Yasser Mosque and al-Fath al-Mubeen/Fateh Mosque in Babil Governorate, were bombed and partially destroyed (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0001) .
Russian airstrikes damaged the interior of Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Bayanoun Town in Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0002).
Suspected Russian airstrikes damaged two mosques in Aleppo city including the Abdullah bin Abbas Mosque and the Agha Jaq Mosque (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0003).
DGAM reported illegal excavation, looting, and illegal construction in Quneitra Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0004).
Regime airstrikes damaged the Aisha Mosque in the city of Deir ez-Zor (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0005).
Regime shelling severely damaged Al Hadi Mosque in Babeis Town in Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0006).
Suspected Russian airstrikes damaged al-Kabir Mosque in Mu’arrassat al Khan Town in Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0007).
Regime airstrikes targeted Al Kabir Mosque in Al Mouzra village in Idlib Governorate, causing severe damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0008).
Regime warplanes fired missiles on al-Kabir Mosque in Deir al-Asafir village in Damascus Governorate, causing severe damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0009).
Regime shelling damaged an unidentified mosque in Zamalka in Damascus Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0010).
Opposition forces shelled the First Armenian Evangelical Church of Emmanuel in Azizeyah Neighborhood in Aleppo City in Aleppo Governorate, causing severe damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report 16-0011).
Suspected Russian airstrikes damaged Al Nour Mosque in the town of Al Boleel, Deir ez-Zor Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0012).
DGAM reported structural damage to the Daraa National Museum caused by mortar shells fired by armed groups (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0013).
Regime and Russian airstrikes cause damage to Hinni Mosque in the Old City of Raqqa, Raqqa Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0014).
Russian airstrikes damaged Abu Bakr Al Sedeiq Mosque in the city of Al Bab, Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0015).
Regime airstrikes caused damage to five columns in the archaeological site of Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0016).
ISIL carried out three bombings near the Sayyida Zeinab Shrine, Damascus Governorate, causing no reported damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0017).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative produced two reports on the Al-Ma’aara Museum and the Citadel in the city of Ma’arat al-Numan, Idlib Governorate (Appended TDA Reports).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative produced a report on the damage to the Al Adiliah Mosque located southwest of the Aleppo Citadel (Appended TDA Report).
Russian airstrikes damage the al-Hamza Mosque in Anadan, Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0019).
SARG airstrikes damage the Sidiq Mosque in Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0020).
The Raqqa Cultural Center in Raqqa Governorate hit by airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0021).
Russian bombardment damages the Al-Khayrat Mosque in Aleppo (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0022).
DGAM shows evidence of damage to Qalaat Saladin in Latakia Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0023).
SARG airstrikes damage the al-Farooq Mosque in Masqan (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0024) and the Al-Kabir Mosque in Hayyan (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0025) in Aleppo Governorate.
SARG missiles allegedly damage columns in the Roman theater in Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0026).
DigitalGlobe imagery shows Nineveh (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 15-0097 UPDATE) and the Nebi Yunus Mosque Complex (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0004) in Mosul further damaged by development.
SARG airstrikes damage the Al-Nasr Mosque in Gharnata, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0027).
SARG bombardment damages the Abu Bakr al-Sideiq in Kafr Zaita, Hama Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0028).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative produced two reports on the archaeological site of Apamea, Idlib Governorate (Appended TDA Report).
Two ISIL suicide bombings damaged the Shia Rasul al-Azam Mosque in Baghdad (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0006).
An ISIL suicide bomber attacked a Shia mosque in Muqdadiyah, Diyala Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0007).
Russian airstrikes damaged the al-Souq Mosque in Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0029).
Aerial bombardment damages two mosques in the city of Aleppo (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0030).
A series of four suicide bombings occurred near the Shrine of Sayyida Zainab in Damascus Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0031).
ISIL militants damaged or destroyed at least 19 Assyrian churches along the Khabur River in Hasakah Governorate since early 2015 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0032).
Russian airstrikes damaged a mosque in Dar Ta’izzah, Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0033).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative produced two condition assessments on heritage assets in Jaradeh and Serjilla in Idlib Governorate (Appended TDA Reports #1 and #2).
The Day After Heritage Protection Initiative also conducted a rapid site assessment to document damage caused by Russian airstrikes around the site of Ebla (Appended TDA Report #3).
DGAM reports illegal ongoing excavations at the Dead Cities of Dahes, Babisqa, and Dar Qita in the Jebel Barisha area of Idlib Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0034).
Several sources reported damage to the archaeological area of Palmyra, the Qalaat Shirkuh, and the Sayyeda Khadija Mosque in modern Palmyra, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0035).
Video footage shows damage to two churches in Raqqa, which were first damaged in September 2013, which are now occupied by ISIL (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0036).
A new video of the Abi Thar Al Ghafari Mosque in Tadmor, Homs Governorate, reportedly struck by SARG missiles in December 2015, shows the extent of the damage (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0160 UPDATE).
DGAM reports illegal excavation with heavy machinery has caused significant damage at the archaeological site of Tell Ajaja in al-Hasakah Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0037).
Coalition airstrikes caused extensive damage to al-Farouq Mosque in Kubaysah, al-Anbar Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0008).
The Uthman bin Affan Mosque and Bilal ibn Rabia Mosque in Tadmor, Homs Governorate was damaged, reportedly by Russian airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0039).
Two sites in the city of Raqqa, a market near Hattin Cemetery and an area near al-Imam al-Nawawi Mosque, were damaged reportedly by Russian airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0038).
The al-Sayyida Aisha Mosque in the city of Aleppo, Aleppo Governorate was damaged reportedly by Russian airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0040).
Reportedly damage the Al Aisha Mosque in Mosul, Ninawa Governorate reportedly by US-led Coalition airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0009).
New video footage of Bilal Mosque in the city of Tadmor, showing extensive damage, was recorded on April 5, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 15-0160 UPDATE).
New footage shows ongoing looting at the site of Rafid on April 9, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0004 UPDATE).
Images from the UNESCO World Heritage site of Palmyra and the museum continue to emerge as civilians gain access the site (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0041 UPDATE and ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0043 UPDATE).
DigitalGlobe satellite imagery of Palmyra from March 30, 2016 shows many more tombs have been destroyed than previously reported (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0044).
SARG airstrikes damage four mosques in Rif Dimashq Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0045).
The al-Nur Mosque in the city of Raqqa was damaged, reportedly by US-led coalition airstrikes, on April 1, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0046).
Looting and illegal excavations in the Bosra Roman ruins continues (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0047).
The al-Kabir Mosque in the town of Ma’arat al-Numan, Idlib Governorate was damaged by a car bomb (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0048).
The Church of the Child Jesus in Tadmor, Homs Governorate was damaged (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0049).
The Sheikh Saeed Mosque in Saraqib, Idlib Governorate was reportedly damaged by SARG airstrikes (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0050).
A church converted into a gym by ISIL militants in Shaddadi, Al Hasakah Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0052).
A reported SARG airstrike damaged the al-Gharbi Mosque in Tamanaa, Hama Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0053).
An alleged SARG airstrike severely damaged the Khaled Bin Al Walid Mosque in al-Eis, Aleppo Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0054).
SARG forces reportedly occupy the al-Ghoufran Mosque in Damascus, Damascus Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0055).
An alleged SARG airstrike struck an area near al-Firdous Mosque and a car bomb of unknown origin detonated near al-Nur Mosque in Raqqa, Raqqa Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0056).
Reported SARG airstrikes damaged Uthman bin Affan Mosque and al-Nur Mosque, severely damaging both mosques in Ter Maalah, Homs Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0057).
An electrical fire caused severe damage to Suq Asruniyeh, Suq Meskiyeh, and Othman Bank in Old Damascus, Damascus Governorate (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0058).
A reported SARG airstrike damaged the Zaid bin Haritha Mosque in Aleppo, Aleppo Governorate on April 22, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report SHI 16-0059).
ASOR CHI received confirmation that ISIL militants bulldozed several of the ancient gates of Nineveh in Mosul, Ninawa Governorate in mid-April (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0010).
The Malthai Rock Reliefs located in Dohuk Governorate were vandalized for a second time (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0011).
Shelling of unknown origin damaged al-Firdous Mosque in Fallujah, Al Anbar Governorate on April 15, 2016 (ASOR CHI Incident Report IHI 16-0012).