Isis destroys ancient tombs in Palmyra
Source: The Guardian
Isis destroys ancient tombs in Palmyra
Antiquities chief says three towers blown up, one dating back to AD44, as
apparent attempt to obliterate Syrian city continues
Kareem Shaheen in Beirut
Friday 4 September 2015 10.59 BST
Islamic State has destroyed three tower tombs in Palmyra that date back to the first and second centuries, Syrias antiquities director has said, in what appears to be the latest act in a systematic effort to obliterate the ruins of the ancient city.
On Friday, Maamoun Abdulkarim said the tombs in Palmyra, which was among the best preserved sites from antiquity, were blown up 10 days ago. The Jamblique, Elhbel and Kithot tombs were built in AD83, AD103 and AD44 respectively.
He said the details of the destruction were confirmed by the testimony of residents and satellite imagery of the sites obtained by Boston University.
The news emerged days after Isis blew up two historic temples in Palmyra. The terror group first destroyed the Temple of Baal Shamin and then the Temple of Bel, one of the most notable religious structures in the Middle East to survive from the ancient world.
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Read more:
http://www.theguardian.com/world/2015/sep/04/isis-destroys-ancient-tombs-palmyra
Tower of Elahbe, built in 103 A.D.