Damascus, Feb. 15 (SANA) In the courtyard of a centuries-old Damascene house, the sounds of song and conversation filled the air on Saturday as artists, artisans and young participants gathered for “Syrian Corners,” a cultural event promoting the country’s diverse heritage.
Held at Beit Farhi in the capital’s Old City, the event aimed to showcase the many strands that make up Syrian identity — from traditional crafts and regional cuisines to music and storytelling — while encouraging dialogue and social cohesion.
Visitors moved between displays of handmade crafts and artistic performances that told human and social stories, before sampling dishes drawn from Syria’s varied culinary traditions. Organizers said the goal was to create a shared space where Syrians from different backgrounds could connect.
A highlight of the program was a performance by the Gardenia Choir, whose repertoire spanned multiple Syrian dialects and cultural traditions. The choir performed songs representing Damascus and its countryside, Kurdish and Aleppine heritage, coastal melodies, and Armenian and Circassian traditions, as well as music from the country’s Jazira region. Some pieces reflected wedding rituals and family celebrations, underscoring themes of unity and continuity.
The event also featured an exhibition titled “Narratives of Peace,” focusing on stories of reconciliation and coexistence within Syrian society.
Several described the gathering as an opportunity to explore the richness of Syria’s cultural diversity in an inclusive setting.
The exhibition continues through Monday at Beit Farhi, with additional musical performances scheduled, including a contemporary interpretation of traditional Aleppine music by the band “Taqtouqa.”
Organizers said the initiative is part of a broader program designed to promote dialogue and civic engagement among young people across several provinces.
N.J
