3D imaging to the rescue of Palmyra’s Temple of Bel

These days, 3D imaging has become almost common good offering endless possibilities, but recreating a section of the Temple of Bel in Palmyra is quite something different.

We all remember how the precious Temple of Bel was blown up and thoroughly destroyed by IS in October 2015. It was simply heartbreaking!

As the beating heart of Palmyra, the Temple of Bel surrounded by the sacred precinct, the temenos, had defied the centuries (see: The Temple of Bel at Palmyra – in memoriam).

The most sacred part of the temple was the open adyton. Following Semitic traditions, it had two altars, one on each side. Both ceilings were cut from one single monolith stone which evidently did not survive the blast.

The amazing news is that an Italian team has entirely reconstructed the ceiling from the left hand niche using 3D imaging combined with some skilled stonework. The 3D technique is so well-developed that this copy matches the original in every aspect.

The 3D ceiling measures 12m x 1.5m and weights as much as 190 kg. It has now found a place of honor at the National Museum of Damascus for all to see.

[Picture from The Archaeological News Network - Credit  Yamam Alshaar]

There is no way this piece can ever replace what is lost but this is the next best thing. At least, we have the confirmation that from a scientific and practical point of view it is entirely possible to make such reconstructions.