Iraq cries for help to restore ancient sites
“Iraq appealed to other nations on Thursday to help save its archaeological treasures from ruin, saying ancient Babylonian and Assyrian artifacts and priceless medieval Islamic monuments were at risk without more funds.historic sites have been woefully neglected and damaged by decades of war, sanctions and looting.
“Iraqi officials say they need to spend millions of dollars to reverse the damage.High on the list is the national museum in Baghdad, once a trove of ancient artefacts which was plundered after the 2003 invasion while U.S. troops stood by.
“There has already been some international assistance. Italy rehabilitated two museum exhibition halls from the Assyrian and Islamic periods.
“The United States has donated cash to the museum and to help restore Babylon, which was looted, rebuilt by Saddam in a cavalier fashion and used as military base since 2003.”
