In Marat al Numan, northern Syria, a contractor unexpectedly discovered a Byzantine tomb complex believed to be over 1,500 years old while excavating a site for reconstruction. This area, strategically located on routes between Aleppo and Damascus, has been heavily impacted by the Syrian civil war and was seized by the Assad regime in 2020.
The site revealed two burial chambers containing six stone tombs, with crosses inscribed on one pillar, indicating its Byzantine origins. Hassan al-Ismail, the ancient director of Idlib, noted that the find adds to the region’s rich archaeological significance, which includes around 800 sites. Idlib is home to a variety of ancient structures, including basilicas and tombs within the so-called “Dead City.”
Local residents, aware of the value of archaeological sites, often conceal them to avoid property confiscation. Ghiath Sheikh Diab highlighted ongoing government efforts to compensate owners and assist displaced individuals returning to the area. Despite the damage caused by war—including looting—a sense of hope for economic revival through tourism is emerging. Abed Jaffer expressed enthusiasm about restoring these ancient sites to attract visitors and support local economy recovery.
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