Syrian Times 3 June, 2004 Bilad esh-Sham witnessed a developed architectural movement during the Ottoman age. Villages and cities become large because of several new markets which were built in that period.
Damascus, in particular, became the most important centre for the pilgrimage caravans, so new architectural complexes especially mosques and khans up sprang in order to the numbers of pilgrims who came from Iraq, central Asia and the Balkans to assemble in Damascus. That position led to the expansion of southern quarter of Damascus which was called, later, the quarter of caravans. It included guest houses, shopes and markets to provide pilgrims with the basic needs.
The quarter of Sarojah witnessed distinguished architectural development and prosperity during Ottoman ages.
Schools, wonderful buildings and markets were built. The Ottoman officials and wealthy people lived in that quarter. It was called زthe small Constantinople Al- Qanwat quarter also gained an independent Architectural impress- upper classes and rich merchants inhabited there.
When the family of al-Azem ran Damascus famous schools, palaces, and baths were constructed in it. Fathi bath, Sulimaniah school and the mosque of Abd al-Gahni al- Nabulsi in al- Salehia were the first buildings that were characterised by their new architectural models in Damascus during that period. The ruler Suleiman Pasha al- Azem donated all the expenses to restore Al- Qanwat river.
Asd Pasha al- Azem was one of the most important rulers of Damascus during Ottoman age. When he started his rule, Damascus was suffering from tremendous violence and insecurity. He imposed strict security measures and executed harsh punishments. In order, to make his role success. |