After the Destruction of Giant Buddha Statues in Bamiyan (Afghanistan) in 2001

This work reports on a real adventure in earth science and conservation, dealing with the UNESCO's emergency activities implemented in Bamiyan (Central Afghanistan) for the recovery and rehabilitation of the cliff and niches after the destruction of the two famous Giant Statues in 2001. Since 2002 an international effort has been made to understand the geological characteristics of the area, the mechanical properties of local materials, petro-geophysical and sedimentological details as well as the historical and geological evolution of the Statues and cliff. Taken together, this information serves as a basis for the recovery and rehabilitation of the cliff and niches and is presented in detail.

Contenu
The destruction of the giant Buddha Statues in Bamiyan.- The foundation of the colossal Buddha Statues.- The history of Buddhas in Bamiyan.- UNESCO's activities for the safeguarding of Bamiyan.- Safeguarding the Clay Plaster Remains of the Eastern Buddha Statues and the Rear Side of the Niche.- General environmental condition of the Bamiyan valley.- The tectonic setting of Bamiyan and seismicity in and near Afghanistan for the past 12 centuries.- Properties of local materials.- Possible evolution of niches and trends.- Past experience in conservation and exploitation.- Long-term conservation strategy for repair, enhancement, research and risk-preparedness for the preservation of the site.- Emergency intervention.- The back wall of the niches: preliminary considerations.- Conclusions.