Restoring a destroyed architectural monument, archaeologists have found ancient carved reliefs (5 photos)
Restoring the gates of Mashka destroyed by religious fanatics, located in the area of modern Mosul, Iraqi archaeologists discovered Assyrian bas-reliefs 2700 years old. 
Islamic fanatics in Iraq committed another crime in 2016 against the historical heritage of mankind. Fanatics known for their hatred for pre-Islamic buildings, destroyed archaeological sites - Masha and Adad gates. This gate was part of the fortress wall of Nineveh, ancient city on the territory of modern Iraq, located near the city of Mosul. Buildings of the 7th century BC. were rebuilt in the twentieth century, but many ancient elements of the gate still remained in safety. State Council of Antiquities and Heritage of Iraq announced that recently, during the restoration work, seven of these elements are ancient stone slabs with intricate ornaments. 
Ancient Nineveh, located on the outskirts of modern Mosul was an ancient trading and religious center on the Tigris River. City served as the capital of the powerful Assyrian Empire, which had a written language and a complex state structure, at the height of its power dominated the vast majority of states in the region. City was surrounded by a wall with 15 gates, including Mashka's gate, also bearing the name "Gate of Waterholes". The gate was considered an iconic part landscape of Mosul, especially after their restoration in the twentieth century. Alas, the militants bulldozers destroyed most of this impressive reverent awe of the building. 
Restoration projects started after the area was recaptured the Iraqi government. American and Iraqi archaeologists joint effort discovered eight marble slabs that adorned the ancient gates and preserved with little damage. The slabs date back to the reign King Sennacherib from 705 to 681 BC. They probably decorated imperial palace within the city walls before they were moved for gate decorations during the heyday of the next ruler. When strengthening bas-reliefs on the gates, they were partially buried, thanks to which they the underground parts survive, while the exposed carvings weathered. The surviving bas-reliefs depict classical motifs Assyrian art: archers, vines and palm trees. 
“We were all amazed and almost speechless. It looked like sleep,” said University of Pennsylvania archaeologist Michael Danti participating in the Iraq Heritage Stabilization Program. - None hoped and did not even think that we would find the bas-reliefs of Sennacherib in city gates. She added: “Access to cultural heritage is human right, and the terrorists want to permanently sever these ties within its campaign of cultural cleansing and genocide." According to experts, Masha's gate after restoration will become an educational center where you can will learn about the historic city of Nineveh.
