We are thrilled to announce the reprint of Lens on Syria in response to overwhelming popular demand!
Lens on Syria
Thousands of remarkable monuments and relics fill the land of Syria from the coast of the Mediterranean to its desert borders, dating back to the dawn of human history. The sites include: Bronze-Age ruins, Roman temples and necropolises, churches and monasteries from the early Christian and Byzantine eras, Muslim forts and mosques, Crusader castles, and many more. When conflict broke out in 2011, these treasures were put at great risk and in subsequent years, many were destroyed in battles—some were even the intentional targets of extremists.
Daniel Demeter's photos make up one of the most important recent collections of photographs concerning the cultural heritage in Syria. These pictures reflect his love and knowledge of Syria and its heritage as well as perfection of photography.Dr. Abdalrazzaq Moaz, Senior Scholar at Bonn University; Former Director-General of Antiquities and Museums of Syria
From 2006–2009, American photographer Daniel Demeter traveled broadly throughout Syria, documenting the country’s warm and kindhearted people, vibrant markets, exciting landscapes, archaeological sites, historic monuments, and religious architecture. In seven chapters organized by region, Lens on Syria offers a unique visual experience of pre-war Syria and serves as an invaluable record of the country’s long history, rich heritage, and diverse culture.
*** Click here to access a post published by Just World Educational, covering Daniel Demeter’s presentation at George Washington University, where he shared photos and stories from pre-war Syria and highlighted his book.
Click here to access another post by JWE, in which Daniel Demeter emphasizes the urgent need for peace negotiations to preserve Syria’s remaining cultural heritage.
Click here to access a post by JWE featuring Daniel Demeter's reflections on Syria's Bosra region. Drawing from his book Lens on Syria, Demeter recounts a 2007 hike between al-Qaraya and Bosra, organized by the late Father Frans van der Lugt to foster unity among Syrians of diverse backgrounds. The essay highlights the area's rich cultural heritage, the impact of Syria's conflict on intercommunal relations, and recent reconciliation efforts aimed at restoring national cohesion.
Click here to access a post by JWE featuring Daniel Demeter’s reflections on Syria’s Idlib province. Drawing from his book Lens on Syria, Demeter recounts his travels through Idlib between 2003 and 2009, highlighting its rich Byzantine-era heritage and diverse communities. He also discusses the province's transformation during the Syrian conflict, including the rise of extremist groups and the displacement of minority populations.
Lens on Syria is available in Hardcover ($49.99). The Paperback format ($29.99) is temporarily out of print. Additional copies will be available in early May.
Related Voices
