The Destruction of Memory

What remains when centuries-old cultural memory becomes a deliberate target of warfare? The Destruction of Memory immerses us in a deeply affecting struggle: war—not only as armed conflict, but as the strategic, intentional erasure of a society’s cultural identity.

Across the world, artworks, books and historic sites are systematically destroyed in an attempt to wipe entire communities from history. Attacks on collective memory during periods of civil unrest and war are not new—and they continue to this day. In Syria and Iraq, thousands of years of cultural heritage are currently being erased at an alarming pace. Yet destruction is met with resistance. Laws and international agreements play a vital role, but it is above all courageous individuals who risk—and sometimes lose—their lives to protect cultural heritage.

Based on the book of the same name by Robert Bevan, The Destruction of Memory reveals how cultural annihilation is deployed as a weapon of war, from Daesh (ISIS) to conflicts around the globe. International experts show how past decisions have contributed to the current crisis and confront us with its catastrophic consequences. At the same time, the film offers hope: modern technology is proving essential in documenting, safeguarding and ultimately restoring cultural heritage.

Alongside the screening, the VAi is organising the -cide series. Over three evenings of discussion, we explore how and why genocidal violence targets not only human lives, but also homes, cities and the landscapes that carry their histories.