Why Do We Love Strolling In Al-Shaalan?

Strolling through Al-Shaalan, whether on foot or by car, is a cherished tradition for the people of Damascus, especially the youth. On Thursdays, the market and its surroundings are bustling with people. But why is this the case?

Al-Shaalan is a relatively new neighborhood in Damascus, dating back to the 1920s. It was initially a posh, open area inhabited by foreign communities, especially French and Italian expatriates. In addition to the elite Damascene families and government officials of that time. The buildings are architecturally beautiful. The neighborhood was named after Nouri Al-Shaalan, the Emir of the Ruwallah tribe in the early 20th century. He purchased the house of Yasin Basha al-Hashimi, the Prime Minister of Iraq, which was located in Al-Shaalan, and built a mosque nearby. The mosque and the entire area thus became known as “Al-Shaalan.”

Over time, Al-Shaalan transformed from a mere residential area on the outskirts of old Damascus, particularly Al-Salihiyah, into a significant residential and commercial zone. So, why do we still love to stroll through it today? There are several reasons:

1- The Market:

Al-Shaalan is located in the heart of the capital, close to upscale neighborhoods like Abu Rummaneh, Al-Rawda, Al-Hamra, Al-Salihiyah, and Arnous. In the 1990s, the area evolved into a shopping hub with numerous stylish clothing and accessory stores. Despite the often higher prices, it remains a popular shopping destination.

2- AL Tanabel Souk (Meaning: Market For The Lazy)

Al-Shaalan is not just for clothing shopping. It is also famous for the AL Tanabel market, where you can find pre-prepared vegetables like hollowed-out zucchini for stuffing and chopped parsley for tabbouleh, as well as a variety of frozen vegetables and imported fruits. This market makes kitchen tasks easier for housewives.

3- The Food:

Besides the clothing and vegetable markets, Al-Shaalan has a variety of street food vendors. These spots are a go-to for people looking for a quick snack or a refreshing juice. Popular choices include Ma’janat Al-Mahabah, known for its delicious cheese pie, and a juice shop at the corner selling a special drink called “Kawaj,” a frozen strawberry and milk cocktail. You can also find Snack “honey”, honey ice cream, Al-Ward Sweets, shawarma, burgers, and corn carts, making Al-Shaalan a fantastic food destination.

4- Social Connections:

It’s hard to walk through Al-Shaalan without running into a few acquaintances. The market and shops always have a lively crowd, making it a social hub. The presence of schools like the Franciscan School – Dar Al-Salam and other nearby schools keeps the area vibrant, with students continuing to visit even after graduation.

5- Sibky Park:

Al-Sibky Park is a well-known and old park in Al-Shaalan. It was neglected for a while but later renovated, becoming a green space with children’s playgrounds. This made it a popular spot for Damascene families and their children.

Al-Shaalan is a vibrant area in Damascus where you can find almost anything you need. It’s a place filled with memories that people love to revisit.