Lens on Syria: A Photographic Tour of Its Ancient and Modern Culture
Description
Thousands of remarkable monuments and relics fill the land of Syria from the coast of the Mediterranean to its desert borders, dating back to the dawn of human history. The sites include: Bronze Age ruins, Roman temples and necropolises, churches and monasteries from the early Christian and Byzantine eras, Muslim forts and mosques, Crusader castles, and many more. When conflict broke out in 2011, these treasures were put at great risk and in subsequent years, many were destroyed in battles—some were even the intentional targets of extremists. From 2006–2009, American photographer Daniel Demeter traveled broadly throughout Syria, documenting the country’s warm and kindhearted people, vibrant markets, exciting landscapes, archaeological sites, historic monuments, and religious architecture. In seven chapters organized by region, Lens on Syria offers a unique visual experience of pre-war Syria and serves as an invaluable record of the country’s long history, rich heritage, and diverse culture.
Praise for Lens on Syria: A Photographic Tour of Its Ancient and Modern Culture
"Daniel has a wonderful eye for the people, the landscapes and for the beauty of its extraordinary range of historic buildings. It is important . . . [to] keep alive the memory of a society whose interwoven pattern of faiths, ethnicities and cultures is now threatened." —Ross Burns, historian, professor, author, Monuments of Syria
"Daniel Demeter's photos make up one of the most important recent collections of photographs concerning the cultural heritage in Syria. These pictures reflect his love and knowledge of Syria and its heritage as well as perfection of photography." —Dr. Abdalrazzaq Moaz, Senior Scholar, Bonn University, former Director-General, Antiquities and Museums of Syria
"Unreservedly recommended for community, college, and university library Photography collections in general, and Syrian Cultural History supplemental studies reading lists in particular." —Midwest Book Review