The plans underway to implement the Landmark project in Downtown’s Riad al-Solh Square will come to a halt after a number of historically significant ruins were discovered in the area, Culture Minister Gaby Layyoun told The Daily Star Monday. “I have informed the owners of Landmark that their project cannot continue after these important findings on the site,” said Layyoun just a few days after archaeologists reported that among the discovered ruins was an ancient Roman gate and the remnants of one of the country’s oldest churches.

 

“I was convinced to make this decision months ago and I have been waiting for the right time to make the announcement that the plot of land owned by Landmark is an archaeological site that should not be tampered with in any way and should become public property,” Layyoun said over the telephone. [Link]