Remains of three people, one of them is believed to be for renowned Syrian archaeologist Khaled Al-Asaad, found to the east of Palmyra

Authorities on Sunday found the remains of three people; one of them is believed to be for world-renowned Syrian archaeologist Khaled Al-Asaad, who was beheaded by Daesh (ISIS) terrorists in 2015 for refusing to cooperate with them.

The remains were found in Kahloun area to the east of Palmyra, SANA reporter said.

The identities of the dead bodies are expected to be confirmed after the DNA tests.

Archaeologist Khaled Al-Asaad was born in 1934. He held a BA in history from Damascus University and took part in the excavation and restoration works of many foreign archaeological missions in Palmyra.

 He contributed to the reconstruction of more than 400 columns of the great colonnade, the Temple of Baalshamin, the Temple of Al-Lat as well as the columns, the platform and the stairs of the theater of Palmyra. He discovered 700 silver coins in the ancient city of Palmyra and contributed to the discovery of an intact mosaic painting dating back to the third century.

He was awarded the Syrian Order of Merit of excellent degree in addition to medals of merit from France, Poland and Tunisia.

Hamda Mustafa