Syria displays artifacts returned from France at Damascus Citadel

DAMASCUS, Syria (MNTV) — Syria is displaying a collection of historic artifacts returned from France at the Damascus Citadel, giving visitors an opportunity to see the objects after years outside the country.

The exhibition is being held in the Throne Hall of the Damascus Citadel as part of a summer festival and features funerary sculptures from the ancient city of Palmyra, inscribed reliefs and other artifacts dating to the Roman period.

The artifacts were brought back to Syria in connection with French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Damascus, following their removal from the country roughly 15 years ago.

Visitors to the exhibition have been able to view the returned pieces closely while learning about their historical and cultural significance.

According to Daily Sabah, festival official Abdurrahman Amer said the exhibition has attracted considerable interest, with visitors asking about the origins, history and stories associated with the artifacts.

Amer also described the reopening of the Damascus Citadel to the public after years of limited access as a significant development, saying some Syrians were visiting the historic site for the first time.

He said the return of the artifacts carried particular emotional importance for Syrians, as the objects represent part of the country’s cultural heritage that had remained abroad for years.

The exhibition forms part of the Damascus Citadel’s summer festival and combines the presentation of Syria’s ancient archaeological heritage with efforts to reconnect the public with historic cultural sites.

The display also underscores the significance of returning Syrian cultural artifacts to their country of origin and preserving them as part of the nation’s historical heritage.