Ancient Remains Discovered at Syria’s Al-Zahrawi Palace, Raising Heritage Concerns

On October 9 and 10, 2026, "Zaman al-Wasl" published reports of skeletal remains and excavation activities at Al-Zahrawi Palace, located in the Old City of Homs. The palace, dating to the 13th century, is an important part of Syria's historic architectural heritage. The published footage shows exposed skeletal remains within an archaeological burial area, raising urgent questions about the protection of potentially significant archaeological evidence.

According to "Zaman al-Wasl," the Directorate-General of Antiquities and Museums (DGAM) identified the skeletal remains as dating to the Byzantine period. While the DGAM attributed their exposure to earlier disturbances, the circumstances surrounding their discovery, subsequent handling, and preservation have yet to be independently established. The reported presence of Byzantine-era remains within the historic palace underscores the need for an independent assessment of the burial context, excavation activities, and measures taken to protect the site.

Separate media reports have described official instructions to suspend restoration activities at the palace and the involvement of archaeological and engineering specialists in examining the site. However, publicly available reporting does not establish the full scope of the inspections, the findings of any technical assessments, or the current status of protective measures.

An independent assessment could help clarify which interventions occurred, when they took place, whether archaeological deposits were affected, and what conservation measures are necessary. Several heritage experts affiliated with ICOMOS Syria have indicated their willingness to provide professional perspectives to international journalists examining the conservation concerns. Their availability should not be interpreted as an official institutional statement by ICOMOS Syria.

The published footage and subsequent reporting underscore the importance of an independent examination by qualified archaeological and architectural conservation specialists. Such an assessment should determine the nature, age, and archaeological context of the reported skeletal remains, the extent and chronology of excavation and conservation interventions, whether any archaeological deposits or historic architectural features have been disturbed, the current condition of the palace's underground chambers and structural elements, and what immediate protective measures, if any, are required to safeguard the site.

The preservation of Al-Zahrawi Palace is therefore not simply a question of maintaining an individual building. It concerns the protection of historical evidence and the cultural memory of a city whose heritage has already endured substantial losses. The immediate priority is to safeguard Al-Zahrawi Palace and its archaeological remains against further disturbance, commission an independent archaeological assessment, and make the findings publicly available.

The published material is cited to facilitate independent journalistic examination. The circumstances of the reported discoveries and interventions remain matters requiring professional verification.