A 15-metre replica of a Syrian arch that is believed to have survived Isis bombing is going to be erected in Trafalgar Square. The 2000-year-old arch is thought to be the only standing remains of the Temple of Bel, which was all but levelled when the city of Palmyra was furiously bombed by Isis in late August.
The lightweight copy will stand in the shadow of Nelson’s Column and will coincide with World Heritage Week, acting as a symbol of extraordinary resilience in the face of a horrific war. Times Square in New York City will also play host to an identical arch, emphasising the importance of preserving cultural sites in war-torn countries.
The arch is being created by the Institute of Digital Archaeology, which will use photos fed through 3D imaging software to make a template before the finished product is completed in Italy using computer-guided machining and 3D printers. We can’t wait to see it!