The publication indicated that the excavation mission was led by the site director of the General Directorate of Antiquities in the Lebanese Ministry of Culture, Tania Zaven, and the archaeologist from the French Louvre Museum, Julien Chanteau.
The production company confirmed in its release that this documentary, which will be screened on November 25 as part of the tenth session of the Beirut Art Film Festival, “is a testimony to Lebanon’s illustrious history and the importance of its legacy, and he gets it twice. value today at a time when Lebanon’s archaeological sites are at risk of bombing.”
Aractingi, who has about 70 documentaries to his credit, said the film “is a powerful reminder to the world of the great value of this heritage and the dire need to preserve it.” He believed that “the recent bombing that targeted more than 18 archaeological sites in Lebanon is not just a material loss, but an attack on the country’s history.”
What are the main themes highlighted in Philippe Aractingi’s documentary about Byblos, and how do they relate to Lebanon’s cultural heritage?
Thank you for joining us today. Our first guest is Philippe Aractingi, the director of the documentary film “Lebanon, the Secrets of the Kingdom of Byblos,” and our second guest is Tania Zaven, the site director of the General Directorate of Antiquities in the Lebanese Ministry of Culture.
Philippe, could you please tell us more about the process of creating this documentary and what inspired you to focus on the excavations in Byblos?
Philippe Aractingi: Creating this documentary was an incredible experience for me. It was an opportunity to dive deep into the history of Lebanon and showcase its rich cultural heritage. I have always been fascinated by the ancient city of Byblos and its significance in the region. The excavations, led by Tania and Julien, provided a unique perspective into the history of the site and its preservation efforts. It was an honor to capture these moments on film and share them with the world.
Tania, could you speak about the challenges you faced while leading the excavation mission at Byblos and how the film portrays these challenges?
Tania Zaven: The process of excavation is never easy, but it was particularly challenging in Byblos due to the site’s delicate history and archaeological importance. We had to ensure that every step we took was carefully planned and executed to minimize any damage to the artifacts. The film does an excellent job showcasing the hard work and dedication of our team as we uncovered some fascinating finds. It also highlights the importance of preserving these sites for future generations.
Philippe, your film emphasizes the threats facing Lebanon’s archaeological sites. Could you elaborate on these threats and why you think it’s crucial to raise awareness about them?
Philippe Aractingi: Unfortunately, Lebanon’s archaeological sites are not immune to conflicts and natural disasters. Recent bombings have caused significant damage, and many sites are at risk of being lost forever. I believe that raising awareness about these threats is essential to mobilize support for their preservation. The documentary is a powerful reminder of the importance of our past and the need to safeguard it
