Traditional Syrian costumes,and handcrafts are on display at Khan As’ad Pasha, Old Damascus

Damascus, (ST): The splendor of Syrian heritage and folklore was clearly manifested  in the exhibition that was organized  by the Ministry of Culture in Khan Asa’d Pasha in Old Damascus. On  display are  various folkloric costumes from diverse environments and  the beautiful handcrafts that reflect the rich and deep-rooted cultural heritage of the country.

The halls of the Khan were ornamented with colorful costumes from various Syrian governorates and their countryside to remind the audience of the greatness of the past and great achievements of our ancestors, their tales and lasting imprints.

The exhibition displays the beauty of the Syrian  handcrafts, musical instruments, Damascene swords and wood carving and painting on glass and copper, mosaics, Arabesques and handmade looms, pottery, glass, silk handkerchief and other handcrafts that reflect the genius mentality of Syrian handcraftsmen and their elegant taste in manufacturing various objects that meet sundry uses.

In a press statement, Minister of Culture Lubana Mushaweh said that the aim of the event is to present the Syrian heritage, reactivating it, and passing these crafts to the coming generations.

She underlined the importance of supporting the handcraftsmen and sponsoring their products through assigning a number of rooms in the Khan to practice their professions and offering all facilities necessary for them.

Director of Heritage at the Ministry of Culture Rola Akili said that the directorate presents performances of shadow theatre, costumes and oriental lute, stressing that the Syrian folklore is the culture, identity and a symbol of the civilization  of our country.

Handcraftsman Riyad al-Soyoufi talked about the making of the Damascene sword, pointing out that this craft has been distinguished all over the world due to the sharpness, flexibility and strength of Damascene swords. 

K.Q.