Damascus, March 15 (SANA) As Eid al-Fitr approaches, the scent of freshly baked sweets drifting through the narrow streets of Damascus recalls a long-standing tradition: neighborhood ovens where families once gathered to bake holiday pastries.
For generations, these traditional ovens were more than simple bakeries. They formed part of the city’s social life during Ramadan , when families brought trays of maamoul, baklava and other sweets to be baked over wood fires ahead of the holiday.
Heritage researcher Dr. Najlaa al-Khadraa said the ovens remain a symbol of Damascene culture despite the spread of modern home appliances.
“Even today, sweets baked in the neighborhood oven have a unique taste linked to Eid celebrations,” she told SANA.
Historically, many homes lacked suitable ovens for delicate pastries, relying instead on traditional stoves used mainly for cooking. As a result, families turned to market ovens built of stone, whose large fire chambers distributed heat evenly and produced distinctive flavors.
These ovens were often located in the heart of old markets or neighborhood squares. Bakers used long wooden tools to slide large copper trays deep into the ovens while residents waited nearby, exchanging greetings and holiday wishes.
Preparations typically began days before Eid. Families gathered to prepare dough and fillings of dates, walnuts or pistachios before carrying marked trays through neighborhood alleys to the oven. As the pastries baked, the aroma of clarified butter and wood smoke spread through the streets, signaling that the holiday was near.
Although modern gas and electric ovens have reduced their use, a handful of traditional ovens still operate in Damascus. According to historical records, about 70 such ovens existed in the city until the early 20th century, but fewer than 10 remain today, many operating only seasonally.
Researchers say preserving these ovens is about more than maintaining a traditional cooking method, it also protects a piece of Damascus’ cultural and social heritage tied to Ramadan and Eid celebrations.
K.A.A
