Still Standing Project
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The Museum
The National Museum of Aleppo hosts since 1938 the largest collection of monumental statues, artefacts and inscriptions dated to the preclassical period (7000 – 300 BC) and found in archaeological excavations, construction sites and from rescue operations in whole Syria. Current building erected at the end of the sixties has been until 2011 not only an important tourist attraction but also a focal meeting point for the local community and those working on the cultural heritage of the Aleppo region. Although not directly bombed, the museum suffered damage caused by shelling and gunfire, by the flooding of the basement and explosion of the windows with consequent exposure of the statues to the elements and the action of animals.
The Projects
The Italian Mission at the National Archaeological Museum of Aleppo, launched in 2021 and funded by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MAECI), aims to study, restore, and prepare for re-display the museum’s archaeological collection, with particular attention to the monumental statuary preserved in the National Museum, which was damaged during the war and is still housed within the museum. The mission combines scientific research, through the direct study of the artefacts, with heritage conservation and enhancement, through restoration and exhibition activities, as well as the training of local professionals in restoration practices. It builds upon and complements the UNDP project, completed in 2019, which focused on the re-display of one exhibition wing of the museum.
Following the earthquakes of February 2023, the project developed into an earthquake relief project, funded by the ALIPH Foundation. Its immediate priorities include the assessment of structural damage, the safeguarding of the building, the restoration of reliable electricity and water supply, and the secure storage of damaged objects, while also contributing to the creation of a safe and functional space for the local community. This part of the project, carried out in collaboration with Terre des Hommes (TdH), will complete the installation of solar panels on the museum roof.
Since late 2025, the University of Florence – Department SAGAS, in collaboration with UNESCO, has launched the professional training programme “Hands on Heritage” for students of the University of Aleppo and museum curators. The project has created a dedicated closed-network inventory system and, on 11 May 2026, initiated a three-month traineeship programme within the museum spaces for 25 participants. Through this programme, trainees will acquire up-to-date skills in inventory procedures, photographic and 3D documentation, and archival research. At the same time, they will support the museum in compiling a comprehensive inventory of the collections, clearing the rooms currently used as storage areas, and ensuring the proper storage and management of the materials.
Instagram : Hands on Heritage
Last update
20.05.2026