Society

It was a particularly sunny day this November 11. Standing in the middle of the beautifully kept grounds on the luscious green grass amidst the beautiful flowers growing about, you could hardly believe that this oasis growing between the cactus fields behind the Mezzeh Autostrade was actually the Damascus Commonwealth War Cemetery. “The first year it hasn’t rained; it’s almost part of the tradition,” I heard a woman comment to her husband. The tradition she’s referring to is one Damascenes may not be aware of. Every year, the Canadians and the British alternate between holding the Remembrance Day ceremony at the gravesite, a somber occasion to reflect on the sacrifices of soldiers who had died for our freedom.

Syria, which is seen as being more secular than most Middle Eastern countries, has continued to prove quite strict on mixed marriages, more specifically on marriages between Muslims and Christians. By social decree, the more “respectable” form of marriage is between those of the same religion. There are those, however, who would challenge the traditional and more conservative norms.

A 33-year-old man marries his girlfriend of eight years, and they are now happily living in the city of Damascus with their young daughter. At first sight, their story seems pretty normal and common, two people who fell in love, and fought for that love until they were bound by marriage. The only detail that stands out here is the difference in their religion. Fares, who is a successful Muslim businessman, fell in love with Carla, an older Christian woman. After keeping their relationship a secret from their parents for eight years, they finally decided to come out with the truth and ask for their permission in marriage.
“Who I married was never really talked about, but I was under the impression that who I married was not really an issue,” says Fares

Of all the historical fortifications Syria boasts, FW: takes a look at the two that were built despite the natural disadvantages of their location, truly showcasing the medieval architectural genius of the Arabs.

Fortifications throughout history have always been constructed on top of a carefully chosen highland, like “al-Hossn” (Kraak des chevaliers), and the Aleppo, Hama and Homs Citadels; the higher the location, the more secure it is. Another important element is the availability of a source of potable water. One might add to those two elements the dexterity of the architects, who would plan the citadel, and the skillfulness and accuracy of the engineers, who would execute the plans as drawn. Thus, formidability is reached when construction experience complement the natural site, producing a highly immune fortification. While architects have to observe certain consideration and rules, each rule has a reinforcing exception, and the architect’s genius might come up with the bright idea of employing the element of surprise in erecting a citadel where no invader would expect to encounter one.

A sweet tooth is not necessarily a Ramadan liability.
It may be a time that we generally associate with discipline and denial, but Ramadan also has a sweet and palatable tradition that is anything but lacking in indulgence. From “na’aym,” a crispy, honey-covered bread sold in the street and by vendors on bike to “qatayef,” a folded pastry stuffed with walnuts and unsalted cheese delivered to one’s door to “tamerhindi,” sweet homemade date juice, Ramadan is a time for desserts unseen during the rest of the year – and favorites enjoyed year-round. Those who fast say dessert isn’t just an empty delight at Ramadan: It’s also a great way to quickly replenish energy and follow the example of the Prophet Mohammed (PBUH), who is said to have broken his fasts with water and dates.