Iraqi Archaeologists Reassemble Ancient Assyrian Treasures Destroyed By Islamic State

Why in the News?

  • Decade-long effort: Archaeologists are painstakingly reassembling ancient Assyrian treasures at Nimrud, destroyed by IS jihadists in 2014.
  • Historical significance: Nimrud was once the crown jewel of the Assyrian Empire, and now, archaeologists are restoring its cultural heritage.

IRAQI ARCHAEOLOGISTS REASSEMBLE ANCIENT ASSYRIAN TREASURES DESTROYED BY ISLAMIC STATE

Restoration Process

  • Fragmented treasures: Over 35,000 fragments have been uncovered, with more than 500 artefacts found shattered at the site.
  • Careful reassembly: Experts are restoring bas-reliefs, sculptures, and slabs depicting mythical creatures and figures from Assyrian King Ashurnasirpal’s palace.

Challenges Faced

  • Devastation by IS: IS destroyed monuments using bulldozers, pickaxes, and explosives, including the 2,800-year-old Temple of Nabu.
  • Restoration complexity: The recovery operation involves sorting and identifying fragments, with 70% of the collection process completed.

Significance of Nimrud

  • Cultural heritage: Nimrud, founded in the 13th century BC, is an essential part of Mesopotamian history, and its restoration is crucial for preserving humanity’s shared past.
  • Global effort: The restoration project involves collaboration with global institutions like the Smithsonian, with US financial support, to safeguard this invaluable site.

Assyrian Empire 

  • Origin: The Assyrian Empire emerged in the 25th century BC in Mesopotamia, modern-day Iraq.
  • Peak: It reached its zenith during the 9th to 7th centuries BC under kings like Tiglath-Pileser III and Ashurbanipal.
  • Territory: The empire expanded across the Middle East, including parts of modern-day Syria, Turkey, and Iran.
  • Fall: The empire fell in 612 BC due to invasions by the Babylonians and Medes.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times