Yemen- Yemen’s war turns al-Sala Castle into ruins

Location: Taiz, Yemen.

Language: Arabic

Duration: 00:03:13

Sound: Natural

Source: A24

Restrictions: A24 Subscribers

Dateline: 27-02-2022

Storyline:

The war in Yemen caused extensive damage to many of the country’s historical monuments including al-Sala Palace in Taiz. The palace, also known as the National Museum, was built in the 1950s and houses 360 rooms. The historical site, however, was not spared from destruction inflicted by the Houthi militia group fighting the internationally recognized government of Yemen.  Following the capture of the palace, the Houthis turned it into an ammunition depo and a stronghold where innocent civilians were either tortured or gunned down by snipers.

Before the war broke out, invaluable artifacts and traditional costumes were put on display for tourists and visitors. There was also a hall in the palace where birds and species native to the area were kept.

The residents feel so upset and sad for what the historical site turned into, hoping it will undergo restoration as pledged by the Directorate of Antiquities and museums in Taiz.

Shotlist:

-SOUNBITE: Akram al-Haj, archeology activist.

‘’ We feel sad for seeing this scope of destruction of our historical sites here in Sala Palace or Cairo palace which was targeted by the Houthis. We will try to restore these historical sites once the city is liberated.’’

-SOUNDBITE: Mahboub Qasem al-Jaradi.  Director of General Authority for Antiquities and Museums.

‘’ There is a great deal of significance and symbolism of Sala for tourists and visitors, The palace was home to various invaluable archeological artifacts and antiquities which were taken to al-Aradi Museum for restoration work before the war but sadly were never restored. When the war broke out, shelling and strikes destroyed what remained of Sala Museum. plans are currently underway to restore this historical site.’’

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