Libya floods leave UNESCO-listed site of Cyrene battered and at risk

This article was first published by the Middle East Eye.

Catastrophic flooding and landslides following Tropical Storm Daniel on 10 September 2023 have affected the ancient city of Cyrene, a 7th century Greek settlement in eastern Libya.

Monuments are under threat of collapse and looting at the region’s sole UNESCO-listed site as well as in other ancient sites near the coast.

Although the preservation of human life remains the priority, it is also vital that Libya’s cultural heritage and ancient monuments are preserved as an integral part of the country’s history and identity.