Moonlit treasure hunts ignite hope amid Syria’s turmoil

A recent article in Financial Times underscores that in the shadow of Syria’s shattered past, a new treasure hunt is sweeping across Damascus and beyond — as metal detectors beep under moonlit skies, hopeful hunters dig deep in search of long-lost fortunes buried beneath a land rich with history and mystery.

“Under the regime, it was impossible to go hunting on a moonlit night,” explained Abu Wael, 67, a self-described “professional” treasure hunter. Metal detectors, previously unavailable in Syria, are now sold openly in Damascus shops, with prices up to $10,000 and decorated storefronts showcasing Syrian flags, gold nuggets, and customers wielding the latest devices.

One retailer, speaking anonymously due to the topic’s sensitivity, noted that a few Syrians secretly hunted for treasure for decades, but interest surged after Assad’s fall because of the “flexibility in purchasing of these machines.” He added that many Syrians believe in buried treasure because “our region is the cradle of many civilisations,” with family stories fueling hopes of valuables buried on private lands. “But we get a lot of people who do this as a hobby... We sell the child sizes in green and pink,” he said.

Treasure hunting taps into Syria’s rich history. Amr al-Azm, a Syrian historian, said, “Everyone in our region knows some relative who was once digging in their house and found a jar filled with gold.” Under Assad, such digging was illegal to protect heritage sites, forcing enthusiasts underground. After the regime’s collapse, a security vacuum led many, amid widespread poverty, to dig at heritage sites and their own properties.

Rumors of overnight riches have circulated, though experts dismiss most claims, attributing any found gold to looting from museums or regime loyalists. The government admits the excavations remain “technically illegal” but often turns a blind eye.

Meanwhile, retailers across the region, including the UAE, have capitalized on demand, selling advanced detectors—some waterproof, some with 3D imaging—specifically marketed to Syrians.

Abu Wael warns of the dangers, from local hostility to deceitful salesmen. After 40 years searching, he remains skeptical: “Whoever finds gold, loses his mind.”

By Naila Huseynova