Gaza’s Cultural Heritage Under Threat Amidst Ongoing Conflict

The ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip has resulted in the widespread destruction of cultural heritage, with hundreds of historical sites and religious buildings damaged or destroyed since 2023. The destruction is raising concerns about the erasure of Palestinian history and identity.

Extent of the Damage

As of January 2025, Israel had destroyed 815 mosques and 19 cemeteries during the conflict [1]. A report by PEN America, released in September 2025, details extensive damage to museums, archaeological sites, and religious centers, noting the deaths of over 150 cultural figures [4]. The report highlights damage to 36 cultural, historical, religious, and educational institutions and sites, including instances of book burnings and looting of artifacts [4].

Significant Sites Affected

Among the sites impacted are the Great Omari Mosque in Gaza, damaged by February 26, 2025 [4], and the Hammam al-Samra bathhouse [4]. The Pasha Palace in Gaza City, dating back to the mid-13th century, has also suffered damage, with Ottoman-era stones and artifacts recovered from its ruins as of March 3, 2025 [4] and [3].

Efforts to Preserve and Rebuild

Despite the devastation, efforts are underway to preserve and rebuild Gaza’s cultural heritage. Artists are working to document and restore damaged sites [3]. Still, the scale of the destruction presents significant challenges to these initiatives.

Forced Displacement and Cultural Impact

A Human Rights Watch report from November 14, 2024, details the forced displacement of Palestinians from Gaza, further exacerbating the crisis and impacting cultural life [2].

The destruction of cultural heritage in Gaza represents a significant loss for Palestinian identity and history, and the long-term consequences of this damage remain to be seen.