Damascus, March 26 (SANA) The Wall of Damascus stands as a prominent historical witness to the city’s development and its interaction with the many civilizations that have passed through it over the centuries. Its structure and successive transformations reflect different eras, making it an essential part of the city’s cultural identity and living memory.
The wall is more than a stone structure. it is an open record holding stories that stretch from ancient times to the present day, reflecting the events and changes Damascus has experienced throughout history.
Successive eras
Speaking about the Wall of Damascus, folklore researcher Mohi al-Din Qarnafla told SANA that its origins date back to the Aramean era at the beginning of the first millennium BC, when its earliest features were established.
He explained that over time, the structure underwent significant transformations. It was restored during the Greek period following the arrival of Alexander the Great, and further reinforced during the Seleucid era.
During the Roman period, the wall reached an advanced stage of development, as it was rebuilt with greater strength. The city took on an almost rectangular shape, and its famous gates were established, including Bab Sharqi, Bab Touma, Bab al-Jabiya, Bab Kisan, Bab al-Salam, Bab al-Faradis and Bab al-Saghir, which remain integral to the identity of Old Damascus.
According to Qarnafla, the wall served as the city’s first line of defense. It witnessed numerous wars and restoration efforts, particularly during the Byzantine and Umayyad periods.
The Umayyad era marked one of its most significant phases, with extensive reconstruction enhancing both its defensive and urban roles. Today, the wall retains its status as a cultural and national symbol, attracting visitors from around the world to explore Damascus’ rich history.
Neighborhoods inside and outside the wall
Within this historic setting, the wall encloses ancient Damascene neighborhoods such as al-Amara, al-Qaymariyya, al-Bzuriyya and al-Shaghour al-Juwani, where traditional houses blend with old markets. Landmarks such as the Umayyad Mosque and al-Hamidiyah Souq illustrate the continuity of life in the city across centuries.
Outside the wall, the city gradually expanded to include neighborhoods such as al-Midan, al-Shaghour al-Barrani, al-Qanawat, New Sarouja, Rukn al-Din, al-Salihiyah, al-Amara al-Barraniyya and al-Muhajireen. Each developed its own character, reflecting Damascus’ urban growth over time, Qarnafla said.
Memory and identity
For residents, the wall carries meanings that go beyond history. Wael al-Samman, an elderly resident of al-Shaghour, said it is not just an ancient monument but a constant presence in daily life, offering a sense of comfort and belonging.
Similarly, Hani Hasaballah from al-Qaymariyya said the wall embodies Damascus’ long history, with traces of successive civilizations still visible in its structure and gates, making it a cherished landmark for both residents and visitors.
A symbol of continuity
Today, the Wall of Damascus extends about 4,500 meters, with a height ranging between 6 and 10 meters. Its thickness varies by location, reaching about 270 centimeters at Bab Kisan.
More than a historical relic, the wall remains a living space where memory and place intertwine, and a symbol of resilience and continuity. Despite the challenges it has faced, it endures as a witness to a city that continues to thrive.
F.J.
