[CPProt.net] Burglars steal 350 pieces of jewelry from Lebanon's presidential palace

[MSN CPPnet (Ton Cremers)]

Burglars steal 350 pieces of jewelry from Lebanon's presidential palace

15:57 2005-11-30
Burglars have stolen about 350 pieces of priceless jewelry, some dating back
to the Roman era, from Lebanon's historical Beiteddine Palace, a security
official said Wednesday. The robbery at Beiteddine, which is the summer home
of Lebanon's president, occurred sometime between midnight Sunday and
Tuesday morning. The official said the burglars broke in through a ground
floor window of the palace's museum. 

They took some 350 pieces of jewelry, including gold bracelets and earrings,
said the official, who did not give his name because he was not authorized
to speak to the press. Police have closed the palace for the investigation.
On Wednesday journalists were not allowed to enter Beiteddine, which stands
60 kilometers (37 miles) southeast of Beirut. 

Built in the early 19th century, Beiteddine is known for its terraces,
courtyards and landscaped gardens. Its museum is a major tourist attraction
as it contains a large collection of Phoenician works of art, weapons from
the Middle Ages, traditional costumes and jewelry. 

The annual Beiteddine Festival has hosted artists such as the Spanish tenor
Jose Carreras, the rock star Elton John and Lebanese diva Fairouz, reports
the AP. 
I.L.

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