IS destroying Iraq’s archaeological treasures

The Islamic State (IS) group is purging ancient relics they say promote idolatry that violates their fundamentalist interpretation of Islamic law
--------------------------------------------
1 Nimrud: Founded in 1250 BC. Known in ancient times as Kalhu, it was capital of Neo-Assyrian empire – then world’s most powerful state

Many artefacts preserved in museums around world, but many remained on site. City looted and bulldozed with heavy machinery

Nimrud’s winged bulls – protective deity known as lamassu – are among best known symbols of Assyrian world

2 Khorsabad (Dur-Sharrukin): Built as new capital of Assyria by King Sargon II, who ruled from 722 to 705 BC

Renowned as model of Assyrian architecture, site features 24m-thick wall and seven gates. Baghdad investigating reports that site is being demolished

3 Nineveh: IS video shows destruction of lamassu on city’s Nergal Gate (above), dating back to 9th Century BC

4 Mosul: Militants have smashed artefacts in Mosul Museum and burned hundreds of books from city library and University, including many rare manuscripts

5 Hatra: Fortified city which flourished in 1st and 2nd centuries AD during Parthian Empire
----------------------------------------------
Home to many temples and sculptures dedicated to gods, including Apollo and Poseidon. Militants used explosives to blow up buildings
-----------------------------------------------
Mosul

Baghdad

IRAQ

1 2 3 4 5

200km 120 miles

Temple to Shamash (Mesopotamian sun god) in Hatra
----------------------------------------------
Sources: UNESCO, Wire agencies

Pictures: Getty Images, Newscom, AP 

words 232