ISIS's impact on Syrian intangible cultural heritage: Marriage customs and rituals in the region of Manbij

Abstract

During its occupation of the Manbij region, ISIS targeted intangible cultural heritage, including marriage rituals. Through online semi-structured interviews with 12 participants, selected to represent the population of the region, this article explores the impact of ISIS’ rule on local marriage rituals and reveals the true motivations behind its targeting of intangible heritage, including small intangible practices. The study highlights the importance of marriage rituals, as they provide an opportunity for gathering, joy and connection between families, and an opportunity to express their cultural diversity. It shows the specific cultural impacts of conflict which left a significant lasting impact on the customs and rituals of marriage in the region. The study reveals that ISIS targeted intangible cultural heritage elements, including marriage rituals: it cancelled some completely, such as the henna night and wedding party, under the pretext that elements of the ritual had been haram (forbidden in Islam). However, we argue that the religious motivations were just a cover for a comprehensive strategy aimed at eliminating the culture and identity of communities, controlling them, and imposing a new culture and identity.