ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Aliph Foundation Backs Restoration of Palmyra Museum and ISIS-Damaged Works in Syria

cultural-heritage · 2026-09-11

A decade following the devastation caused by the Islamic State group, the Aliph Foundation has launched a project aimed at reviving the Palmyra museum and the artworks that were harmed by ISIS. This initiative also encompasses efforts in Damascus to restore pieces labeled as 'martyred' by the organization. The restoration process brings forth concerns regarding authenticity and ethical considerations in a region affected by conflict. Details regarding the budget or completion timeline remain undisclosed. This endeavor is part of a larger global initiative to address the destruction of heritage in Syria, particularly after significant damage to Palmyra's ruins post-2015. The Geneva-based Aliph Foundation has a history of supporting the protection of cultural heritage. An article in Le Monde, dated September 11, 2026, presents this restoration as a challenge in reclaiming cultural artifacts altered by violence.

Key facts

  • Ten years have passed since the Islamic State group's destructions in Syria.
  • The Aliph Foundation is engaged in restoring the Palmyra museum and artworks damaged by ISIS.
  • The restoration also concerns Damascus.
  • The works are described as 'martyred' by the Islamic State group.
  • The article was published by Le Monde on September 11, 2026.
  • The restoration raises difficulties, though specific challenges are not detailed in the source.
  • Hope remains despite the difficulties, according to the article's framing.
  • The source does not provide a budget, timeline, or named individuals involved.

Entities

Institutions

  • Aliph Foundation
  • Islamic State
  • Le Monde

Locations

  • Palmyra
  • Syria
  • Damascus

Sources