KHAN ASSAAD PASHA

The most important of Damascus's leaders by its dimensions (2 500 m ²) is late construction. It was completed in 1753, after a little over a year of work. It is the work of Governor Assaad Pasha al-Azem (that of the Azem Palace). In 1833 Lamartine wrote: " It is a huge dome whose bold arch recalls that of Saint-Pierre in Rome. " Its very symmetrical plan consists of a central dome (now collapsed) and eight side domes 8 m in diameter, equipped with 18 openings each. Stairs serve a floor, where 40 rooms are arranged all around the central courtyard. This staircase leads above, to the roof roof from where the view embrasse the city. A fountain with fountain placed in the centre softens the austere effect of the foundation of black and white stone. At present, it is very often a temporary exhibition place. In sum two visits in one!