Archeological restoration of 'Qatana Kingdom' in Homs
Syria, Local, 10/18/2004

The first stage of German-Syrian archeological restoration project at Tel Mishirfeh, known as 'Qatana Kingdom", near the central Syrian city of Homs, was opened by Homs Governor Subhi Hamida in the presence of German Ambassador in Syria, Eberhard Schuppius.

The opening ceremony was also attended by Director General of the Archeological Sites and Museums in Syria Tammam Fakoush and his German counterpart and Head of the German archeological team operating at "Qatana Kingdom" site Peter Pfalinzer and a great number of scholars and researchers.

Fakoush spoke about the historical importance of Hims city as shown by archeological findings and excavations in the area. He pointed out that work at Tel Mishirfeh is accomplished through three groups: the national Syrian, the German team and the Italian team. The official opening of the Syrian-Italian restoration project will be next year.

For his part, Pfalinzer gave a short briefing on the history of Qatana Kingdom which dates back to the second millennium B.C. -- or the period between the Intermediate and Modern Bronze Ages. He added the Kingdom was totally destroyed in 1340 B.C., but at the beginning of the second millennium a city that belonged to Aramia Kingdom was built, and its name is still unknown. The German archeologist said in 1999 the Royal Palace was unearthed but its physical conditions was so bad that only the floors survived. In 2000 the historically-important Royal Cemetery and water storage were excavated.

The Royal Palace restoration would include using the same ancient raw materials, protection and rebuilding the site. The project could be completed by the end of 2005, and then it would be put to display for visitors and tourists.

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