Until World War II, industry was represented in Aleppo with small enterprises and a highly developed handicrafts
sector, with traditions going back to the Middle Ages. After a period of pronounced decline in the first half of
the 19th century, resulting from European wars, an earthquake that ruined the city in 1822, and changes in European
trade to the benefit of America and Africa, artisan activities were sorely hit.
Here as in Damascus the decline was felt at the end of the last century and in the beginning of the 20th century
due to the importation of foreign products and to some changes in the tastes of the rich clientele now preferring
western goods.
Due to government support, some artisan activities, of interest more particularly to visitors to Syria have been
preserved. It is in souks and especially in the area composing a quadrilateral constituted by the Baron, Shukri
kouatly, EI-Walid and EI-Maarri streets that you will go in search of Aleppine artifacts.
In Aleppo as in Damascus, it is in the souks that you will enjoy browsing among the many stalls and shops to find
the trinket or antique to remind you of your trip. Aleppo is famous for its cotton garments and embroideries. You
must buy one of the magnificent embroidered tablecloths which come in all colors, and are discretely oriental so
as to fit in any home. You will also find beautiful articles of copper, marquetry, gold or silver watermarked jewelry,
and at antique shops marvelous collections of old items. Remember the city had, in particular in the 18th century,
a bourgeoisie of refined tastes. |
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