Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Africanews
Published on 2024-02-29 18:31:19
The Umm Khashem Cemetery in the Iraqi province of Najaf, south of Baghdad, is a significant historical site that showcases the diverse heritage of the nation. Dating back over 1,800 years, the cemetery is a window into the burial practices and beliefs of Iraq’s ancient Christian communities. Located in the al-hira district, the cemetery is home to graves constructed with pottery urns and gable-shaped pottery coffins.
Inhabited by a community called ‘al-obbad’, most of whom were Christians, the al-Hira area holds the remnants of Christian heritage and civilization. The al-Manabir Christian cemetery and the Umm Khashm Cemetery are among the notable sites in the region, with Umm Khashm being one of the largest Christian cemeteries in the Middle East. It is considered to have a status comparable to the Vatican’s Christian cemetery.
However, the cemetery has faced threats from looters over the years. Illegal excavations and vandalism have plagued the site due to negligence and insufficient security measures by Iraqi authorities. Looters target valuables buried with the deceased, including treasures, artifacts, crosses, and personal items like glass bottles containing perfume. The lack of maintenance and protection has allowed these activities to continue unchecked.
Following the U.S. invasion in 2003, Iraq experienced a period of heightened looting and desecration of archaeological sites, including the Umm Khashem Cemetery in al-Hira. Discovered in 1986, the burial ground has suffered continued exploitation and degradation, threatening its historical significance and cultural value.
Researchers and officials have expressed regret over the government’s failure to protect the cemetery and its antiquities. The unjust and illegal excavation by antiquities thieves has led to the loss of valuable artifacts and historical remnants, further diminishing the site’s importance.
Efforts to preserve and safeguard the Umm Khashem Cemetery are crucial to maintaining Iraq’s cultural heritage and historical legacy. Enhanced security measures, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with international organizations could help protect the site from further destruction and ensure its significance for future generations. The rich history and diverse heritage represented by the cemetery deserve recognition and protection to uphold Iraq’s unique cultural identity.
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