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Culture and Heritage

Silk: A Syrian Heritage Silk: A Syrian Heritage

Silk represents an essential part of Syrian culture. Several Syrian proverbs and family names came to be due to the prevalence of silk in the lives of Syrian people. The silk industry in Damascus was in huge demand for centuries. Thanks to its convenient geographical location, Damascus was the epicenter of trade routes from the Mediterranean to the Gulf. Foreign merchants from across the world would pay a visit to the region specifically for these magically handwoven textiles. In the Arab Gulf countries for example, particularly the UAE, Syrians have gained a reputation for textile and silk manufacturing.

The silk industry plays an important role in Syrian culture and lifestyle. Some Syrian families have their family names after their ancestors’ artisan skills in the industry, such as the families of Hariri (silker), Fattal (thread spinner), Nweilati (weaver), Hayek (knitter), Shammat (silk reeler), Qazzi (from “qaz”, meaning silkworms). Silk was long considered a luxury product in Syria, worn mainly by women and by priests while celebrating the holy mass; silk was an important component of traditional Syrian attire across the ages.

The skill of silk weaving is said to be first adopted in Palmyra in Roman Syria in the early first century AD. Coincidentally, Roman architecture can be found in Damascus’ historic silk market. Silk products were particularly popularized during this era, and Palmyra and Damascus held lucrative trade routes between east Asian regions and the West. The silk industry flourished because of this as merchants passed through the cities to purchase locally-made silk products. In Mamluk Syria (1260-1516 AD), silk production reached a peak, especially golden silk, which was the trend. Damascus was famous for its 40+ kinds of silk products.

Palmyra served as the epicenter for the Silk Road, the ancient trade route that connected Central Asia to Europe passing through the Syrian cities of Palmyra, Damascus, and Aleppo. Thus, Syria marked the divergence between east and west. Prior to the construction of the Suez Canal in 1869, Europe relied on Syria for most of their silk imports as it was less costly and time-consuming. The elegant and rich Brocade fabric, which Damascus was famous for since the 11th century and until today, was a top export. The city became famed for its exquisite textiles and its unique designs that depicted different motifs.