Shahat – Ismail Faraj Dukhail, Director of Museums for the Shahat Antiquities Authority, announced that the restoration and maintenance project for the sanctuary of the Demeter Temple in the ancient city of Shahat is progressing according to a comprehensive technical plan aimed at protecting the site and preserving its archaeological components, in cooperation with the American mission working in the area.
Dukhail told the Libyan News Agency that the project is supported by the U.S. Ambassadors Fund and is supervised and monitored by the Shahat Antiquities Authority. The effort is part of ongoing cooperation between the Libyan Department of Antiquities and the American mission led by Professor Susan Kane.
He said fieldwork began in early May and is expected to be completed by the end of June. The project consists of three main phases. The first involves removing harmful plants and trees threatening the ancient foundations, and treating the affected areas with specialized materials to prevent regrowth without impacting historical features.
The second phase focused on restoring and reinforcing the ancient wall overlooking the Wadi Belgadir after cracks and fissures threatened its structural stability. The third phase includes building a protective fence and creating a sanctuary perimeter around the temple to prevent animals from entering and to limit intrusions that might harm the site.
Dukhail emphasized that this project marks a significant step in preserving the cultural heritage of Shahat and protecting one of its most important archaeological landmarks, in line with international scientific standards for restoring and maintaining historical sites.