In brief
A unique tour led by a rebel fighter showcases the lavish and now-vacant halls once ruled by Assad.
The mountaintop presidential palace situated in Syria's capital, Damascus, stands as a stark reminder of a brutal regime that once ruled the country. Recently abandoned by Bashar al-Assad, who fled the country amidst ongoing conflict, the vast edifice is now under the control of armed rebels. Abu Oweis, a rebel fighter, guided reporters through the opulent yet empty halls, pointing out the remnants of Assad's luxurious lifestyle: rich red carpets adorn the corridors, while grand chandeliers and damascene furniture fill the spacious reception rooms. The fighter expressed a mix of admiration and nostalgia regarding the palace, stating, “It is wrecked now, but we want to fix it,” emphasizing how the grandeur was all for Assad.The fighters currently stationed at the palace have taken up residence, sleeping on couches in the expansive rooms. They maintain security at the gate, ensuring that looters and the curious do not disturb their new domain. The sight of modernist sculptures and lavish decorations starkly contrasts the grim reality of the conflict that has plagued Syria for over a decade.With the retreat of Assad's regime, the rebel control signifies a potential turning point for the country, but remnants of the past linger in the form of this monumental palace that witnessed the severity of his rule. The fighters’ exploration of their newfound stronghold sends a clear message: they are now the keepers of the legacy left behind by a regime that once oppressed many.
