Damascus – One of the oldest synagogues in the world was damaged on Friday in the Damascus district of Jobar by forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar Assad, Al Arabiya reported.
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A video posted online by the Syrian opposition shows extensive damage done to the outside of the 2,000-years-old synagogue after shelling in the area reportedly carried out by the Syrian army.
The Jobar synagogue was built atop a cave that, according to tradition, was used by the prophet Elijah to conceal himself from prosecution. The synagogue is said to have been built by the prophet Elisha and repaired during the first century by Eleazar ben Arach.
Six World Heritage sites in Syria were damaged by the Syrian civil war from shelling and open fire between regime forces and rebel fighters. Historic buildings, archaeological sites and residential areas have been left in ruins.
Content is provided courtesy of the Jerusalem Post