Numerous archaeological sites in Afghanistan have been subjected to bulldozing, enabling systematic looting, as revealed by researchers from the University of Chicago.

Their analysis of satellite imagery constitutes the initial conclusive photographic proof that looting practices initiated during the prior government persist since the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021.

Among the affected sites are ancient settlements dating back to the Late Bronze Age and Iron Age, some predating 1000BC.

The majority of these compromised sites are located in the Balkh region of northern Afghanistan, historically the heartland of Bactria over two millennia ago.

Bactria was a prosperous and densely populated region during the Achaemenid Empire in the 6th Century BC, the BBC reported.

By 327BC, Alexander the Great had conquered the area, making it significant in the ancient world.

The central city, Bactra (later known as Balkh), situated on the Silk Route, played a crucial role in Zoroastrianism, Buddhist learning, and later, Islam.

Researchers from the University of Chicago’s Center for Cultural Heritage Preservation have cataloged over 29,000 archaeological sites across Afghanistan, utilizing satellite imagery and other tools.

They observed a distinct pattern emerging in the Balkh region from 2018 onwards.

Identifiable specks on the images, presumed to be bulldozers due to their distinctive appearance and disappearance over time, along with the tracks they leave behind, indicate fresh bulldozing activities.

Subsequent images reveal these areas transformed into pits dug by looters, according to Professor Gil Stein, the center’s director.

Written by B.C. Begley