Sweida, southern Syria, (SANA)- Among the popular traditional industries al-Suwayda governorate is most famous for the straw industry. Straw plates and trays are handmade objects usually used for domestic and ornamental purposes, and they enjoy remarkable tourist popularity given the beauty of their carvings and colors and creative dexterity.

These products are found in local markets, particularly in the shops specialized in eastern industries, as well as at the governorate's museums.

Straw industry was first originated by women in rural areas, and all it needed was the natural straw which women used to collect during harvest time. Wheat stalks would be soaked in water for specific time. Later, straw would be dyed with different colors. Women showed skillfulness in inlaying the stalks and weaving them, where lines would get entangled forming patterns with diverse colors and shapes inspired by everyday reality and the surrounding environment.

 In order to preserve this deeply-rooted industry and not be lost in oblivion, Sweida governorate always tries to allocate a room for the straw industry in all handicraft exhibitions. Among other purposes, such exhibitions aim at helping trainees to master this intricate industry.

Haifa Said /Ghossoun