Raqqa, April 26 (SANA) Residents of Raqqa have launched a grassroots campaign to clean and restore the historic Qasr al-Banat archaeological site, a landmark dating back to the early Islamic period that had fallen into disrepair and been used as a dumping ground in recent years.
The initiative, titled “Playing on the Ruins,” began on Saturday and drew volunteers from across the city. Organizers say the effort is part of a broader push to reconnect the community with its cultural heritage and reclaim public spaces damaged by years of war and neglect.
“We wanted to protect this landmark and restore its place in the city’s memory,” said Alwan Zeter, one of the campaign organizers. He said volunteers were able to partially clear debris from the site, describing the turnout as a sign of strong local engagement.
Participants combined cleanup efforts with cultural activities, including live oud performances and renditions of the Syrian national anthem. Ahmad al-Hussein al-Shemati, a Raqqa-based musician and poet who took part in the event, said the mix of art and volunteer work was intended to “bring life back to the site and reinforce awareness about preserving heritage.”
Local authorities provided logistical support. Abdul Salam al-Ismail, director of the sanitation department at Raqqa City Council, described the effort as part of ongoing cooperation with community initiatives aimed at improving environmental conditions.
Qasr al-Banat, located southeast of Raqqa near the Bab Baghdad archaeological area, dates back to 772 AD. Built using plaster and mud brick, the structure spans roughly 3,000 square meters and is considered one of the city’s oldest surviving landmarks.
The complex features a central courtyard surrounded by smaller courtyards and rooms, with architectural elements suggesting it may have functioned as a center for medical education, including lecture spaces and laboratories.
The site sustained significant damage during the war between 2012 and 2017, including the destruction of structural sections and its central fountain. It has also been affected by unauthorized excavations and environmental degradation.
Before 2011, Syrian and international archaeological missions conducted research and excavations in the area, but such activities largely halted following the outbreak of the war.
Organizers say the campaign is only a first step and are calling for further protection measures, including restoration work and the assignment of guards to prevent future damage.
The initiative reflects a wider trend of community-led efforts to safeguard cultural heritage in post-conflict areas, where formal restoration resources remain limited but public engagement is growing.
M.F / ABD
