The country has since fallen into anarchy and violence which sparked fears for its rich ancient heritage. UNESCO in 2016 added Cyrene and four other sites in Libya to its List of World Heritage in Danger. Today, despite the signing of a peace deal between Libya’s main factions and the creation of a unity government this month, many residents have more immediate concerns than protecting ancient heritage. “There has been graffiti on the ancient ruins and lots of informal digs, where antiquities are dug up and smuggled out of the country,” he said. Libya does have laws aimed at protecting its ancient heritage, overseeing archaeological digs and seriously sanctioning violators.

Source: Libya Today March 25, 2021 04:41 UTC