The Destruction of Memory

Based on the acclaimed book “The Destruction of Memory: Architecture at War” by Robert Bevan. The bombing of Sarajevo’s National Library and the burning of its ancient books. The looting of the Iraqi National Museum and destruction of its priceless historical objects. The beheading of Kahled al-Asaad, long-time lead archaeologist for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Syrian city of Palmyra for refusing to give up hidden artifacts. In the “cradle of civilization” and beyond, the last century has seen the rise of cultural destruction: the intentional annihilation of irreplaceable artwork, artifacts, historical sites in desperate attempts to erase collective history and identity. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Tim Slade and narrated by Tony Award-winning actress Sophie Okonedo, this powerful documentary proposes hope: As crimes of cultural destruction are increasingly reported, perpetrators can be brought to justice and awareness can grow. Increasingly, the power of modern technology can be harnessed to document, protect, and to play a role in the rebuilding process.