In the past, I have written several articles about art. One in particular was about past works of art placed in danger during World War II and today because of ISIS. This week, I’d like to talk about the Temple of Baalshamin and the fact that this relic has been destroyed. Palmyra, located east of Damascus, was a popular stop among the Silk Road. Ruled by Queen Zenobia, Palmyra was most popular during the third century. In 273 A.D., Zenobia was overthrown by the Roman Empire, where temples were built.
ISIS seized the town in May, stating they wouldn’t touch the ruins. However, last August they released a video of their public execution of Khaled al-Asaad, an archaeologist working at one of the sites. Those with the extremist group hung al-Asaad’s head from a column on one of the temples, disrespecting the cultural history that is so important. The group also released images of them blowing up the Temple of Baalshamin, one of Palmyra’s best preserved temples.
The temple, dedicated to their sky god, contains a Classical Graeco-Roman structure. With Corinthian columns and mathematical precision, it’s easy to see the influence. There is also windows in each of the cella’s flanks, allowing one to see the similarities between this and Lebanese temples as well. The cult for this temple was dedicated to Baalshamin, which is a name given to many gods over a period of time. Worshipers would create relief plaques to show their dedication and beliefs.
It is important to understand that this temple is part of a culture and history. Students around the world learn about not just this site, but many others. Religiously this piece of architecture meant a great deal to people, and now it is forever gone. Art is one of the many ways people can express themselves, and by disrespecting it, it sends a message that art to some is meaningless. What’s surprising is that this was not broadcasted in the news, rather, it is relatively unknown. I first heard of the deconstruction through a different article on the Odyssey. News stations must understand that art should make it onto the news, because without art, there would be no record of some of the most historic moments.
