08.12.2024 15:11
After the opposition forces captured the capital, Damascus, in Syria, historic moments unfolded. The people looted the presidential palace of Bashar al-Assad, who had fled the country. In the images that went viral on social media, some fired shots into the air, some took plates, and others filled their suitcases.
After the opposition forces led by HTS completely took control of the capital Damascus, the 61-year-old Baath regime collapsed. Following the recent developments that occurred within 12 days, it remains unclear where Syrian President Bashar al-Assad went as he left the country.
ASSAD'S PALACE LOOTED
After this historic development, the people took to the streets to celebrate. In the event that witnessed symbolic images, the public was seen breaking Assad statues from all over the country while also looting the presidential palace in Damascus.
In the footage that became a trend on social media, some Syrians entering the palace were seen firing guns into the air, while others took items like plates and bowls, and some were seen filling their suitcases. Users commented on the footage with remarks such as, "If the palace was built with money stolen from the people, it is doomed to be destroyed and looted," "The absolute end," "The ends of dictators never change," and "What belongs to the people is returning to the people."
ABOUT THE PALACE
The Presidential Palace is located to the west of Damascus, on Mezzeh Mountain, north of the Mezzeh neighborhood, next to Qasioun Mountain, overlooking the city. The main building covers an area of 31,500 square meters. The entire Mezzeh Mountain plateau is part of the palace complex, surrounded by a security wall and watchtowers. The palace largely consists of empty rooms covered with Carrara marble.
Although it is associated with Japanese architect Kenzo Tange, it is said that he resigned from the project before the construction of the palace began. The brass doors at the front were made by the famous Syrian-Jewish metal craftsman Maurice Nseiri, while the palace building covers approximately 510,000 square meters and also includes a special presidential hospital and the Republican Guard headquarters.
Hafez al-Assad first initiated the building plans in 1979. The building was labeled as a form of "feudal architecture." The palace was frequently used to host government delegations and foreign government visitors. On October 27, 1994, Bill Clinton met with Hafez al-Assad at the palace to negotiate a peace plan between Syria and Israel. To this day, Bashar al-Assad's family has been living in the residence.