Iraq's oldest church falls to ruin in bandit-ruled desert

The video explores the history of an ancient church in Iraq, once a site of early Christian worship before being overshadowed by Islamic sites. Rediscovered in the 1970s, the church has suffered from neglect and environmental damage. Archaeologists have uncovered significant historical artifacts, but work has been hindered by financial and political challenges. Efforts are underway to secure international protection to preserve the site and its artifacts from further decay and theft.

What was the direction faced by the first Eastern Christians during their prayers?

• Towards Rome

• Towards Jerusalem

• Towards Mecca

• Towards Karbala

What overshadowed the ancient church as Islam flourished?

• A Byzantine fortress

• A Roman temple

• A Persian palace

• A Shiite shrine in Karbala

When was the ancient church rediscovered by archaeologists?

• In the 1990s

• In the 1980s

• In the 1970s

• In the 1960s

What language were the inscriptions found in the underground crypt?

• Greek

• Syriac

• Latin

• Arabic

What major event left the archaeological site unprotected?

• The fall of the Roman Empire

• The collapse of Saddam Hussein's regime

• The rise of the Ottoman Empire

• The Persian invasion