In brief
As the sun sets over Mount Qasioun, Syrians gather to celebrate their restored freedoms, reflecting a profound shift in the cultural landscape of Damascus post-civil war.
In a poignant sign of change, residents of Damascus have begun to return to Mount Qasioun, a place that had long been sealed off by the Assad administration. With the civil war marking its end, this New Year’s Eve saw families flocking back to the mountain's heights, rekindling memories of youth spent enjoying picnics and leisure activities amidst mesmerizing views of the city.One local, Sumaya Ainaya, who remembered the mountainside's vibrancy before the war, shared how the mountain had been transformed into a militarized zone during the conflict. No longer deterred, she returned with her family to celebrate, stating, “Thank God, we are back now — we feel like we can breathe again.” The jubilant atmosphere was echoed by her son, Muhammad Qatafani, who at 21, describes the renewed sense of belonging that they feel in their city.With the regime's hold loosened, Damascus is witnessing a cultural renaissance where residents are enthusiastically reclaiming spaces that were once synonymous with oppression. No longer restricted by the fear that characterized the Assad years, the people of Syria are reestablishing their connection to both the land and to one another.As locals gather, share laughter, and savor familiar treats like roasted corn and coffee, the vibrancy of their gatherings signals a new chapter for Syria’s capital. Mount Qasioun's return as a favored leisure spot represents not just a reclamation of territory, but a profound reassertion of identity and freedom for the people who fought tirelessly for these moments of joy.
