Khaled al-Asaad

Syrian archaeologist

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July 21, 2026

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Khaled al-Asaad was a Syrian archaeologist who dedicated his life to the ancient city of Palmyra. He served as the head of antiquities for Palmyra for over 40 years, beginning in 1963. During his tenure, he oversaw excavations and preservation efforts at the UNESCO World Heritage site, which was a vital trading hub connecting the Roman world with Mesopotamia and East Asia.12

Al-Asaad was tragically killed in 2015 by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS) after they took control of Palmyra. He refused to reveal the location of valuable artifacts that had been moved for safekeeping, prioritizing their protection over his own life. His dedication to preserving Palmyra's rich history and cultural heritage is a testament to his commitment as an archaeologist.1

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World Heritage site
Growth of the World Heritage List and challenges to preservation
Syrian scholar Khaled al-Asaad, who had served as Palmyra’s chief archaeologist for 40 years, was publicly beheaded by ISIL for refusing to divulge the location of relics associated with the site. UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova characterized ISIL’s actions as a war crime, and she called upon…
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Syrian scholar Khaled al-Asaad, who had served as Palmyra’s chief archaeologist for 40 years, was publicly beheaded by ISIL for refusing to divulge the location of relics associated with the site. UNESCO Director General Irina Bokova characterized ISIL’s actions as a war crime, and she called upon…
Read More