Azm Palace
Dimashq
Azm Palace, located in the ancient city of Damascus, Syria, was constructed in 1749 as the private residence of As'ad Pasha al-Azm, the Ottoman governor of Damascus. The palace exemplifies traditional Damascene architecture with a complex layout including the harem (family wing), selamlek (guest wing), and khademlek (servants' quarters). Built by 800 workers over three years, it features diverse materials such as limestone, basalt, sandstone, and marble, with intricately painted wooden ceilings depicting natural scenes. The palace's central courtyard includes a traditional cascading fountain, and its baths replicate the city's public hammams on a smaller scale. After extensive damage during the Great Syrian Revolution, the French Mandate authorities restored the palace, later housing the French Institute. Post-independence, it was transformed into the Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions, showcasing Syrian traditional costumes and crafts. The palace received the prestigious Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1983, highlighting its cultural and architectural significance.
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Consejo: Visitors are advised to visit the palace during the cooler months to comfortably explore its courtyards and exhibits. Purchasing tickets in advance or checking opening hours can enhance the experience. Discounts may be available for students or groups. Guided tours provide valuable insights into the palace's history and architecture.
Datos interesantes
- •The palace was built by 800 workers over three years, featuring materials like limestone, basalt, sandstone, and marble.
- •Emperor Wilhelm II of Germany visited the palace during his 1898 tour of Damascus.
- •The palace won the Aga Khan Award for Architecture in 1983 for its restoration and preservation.
- •The baths within the palace are a smaller-scale replica of Damascus's public hammams.
- •The Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions includes traditional Syrian costumes reproduced by artist Ziad Zukkari.
Historia
Azm Palace was built in 1749 during the Ottoman era as the residence of Governor As'ad Pasha al-Azm, constructed over a former Mamluk palace site.
It remained in the Azm family until 1920, when it was sold to French authorities during the Mandate period.
The palace suffered significant damage during the Great Syrian Revolution but was restored by French architects Lucien Cavaro and Michel Ecochard.
After Syria gained independence in 1946, the palace was returned to the Azm family and later acquired by the Syrian government in 1951 to establish the Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions.
Guía del lugar
Harem (Family Wing)18th century
The private residential area of the palace, including family quarters and traditional baths modeled after Damascus's public hammams, featuring a sequence of small rooms and narrow corridors leading to the main steam room.
Selamlek (Guest Wing)18th century
The formal reception area comprising large halls, courtyards with a cascading fountain, and spaces designed for hosting guests and official functions.
Khademlek (Servants' Quarters)18th century
The northern section of the palace dedicated to servants and housekeeping, illustrating the social structure and functional design of the residence.
Main Marble-Floored Reception Hall18th century
Located near the baths, this hall served as the primary reception area with elegant marble flooring showcasing the palace's luxurious materials.
Craft Exhibition Rooms20th century (museum conversion)
Rooms behind the main reception hall now display traditional Syrian crafts such as glassware, copper works, and textiles, highlighting cultural heritage.
Contacto
Teléfono: 011 831 4243