On a recent journey from Germany to his cherished hometown of Aleppo, Alhakam Shaar made an unconventional choice: rather than opting for a hotel or staying with friends, he decided to reside in his father’s former office located in the historic Old City of Aleppo. This bold decision came with its challenges, as Shaar noted the absence of closable windows or doors in the space, complicating his stay throughout the notoriously chilly winter months, when temperatures can plunge well below zero degrees Celsius.

To combat the cold, Shaar purchased a sleeping bag advertised for extreme weather conditions, although he later discovered it fell short of its promises, leaving him to weather several nights with cold toes. Nevertheless, he expressed no regret over his choice. His visit, albeit brief at approximately two weeks due to flight cancellations following disturbances in the area, propelled him to embark on a mission to rejuvenate his family home, which suffered significant damage during the war.

Over this short period, Shaar overcame the considerable obstacles of renovation, including repairing a collapsing roof and re-installing a door to signify that the residence was no longer abandoned. His experience in Aleppo reaffirmed his sense of belonging, as he joyfully embraced his identity not as a mere visitor or tourist but as an Aleppan returning to his roots.

Aleppo, a city with a storied past, is witnessing a wave of returning residents. While many, including Shaar, recognize the infrastructural damage that pervades the area, positive steps are being taken toward revitalization. The new Syrian government, established in December 2024, has initiated reconstruction efforts across the city. Nevertheless, inhabitants share a cautious optimism regarding whether these endeavors will successfully restore Aleppo to its former prominence.

Historically, Aleppo was a bustling hub on the ancient Silk Road, linking traders from various regions and further enhancing its significance within Syria. Throughout the years of conflict and neglect, however, this vibrancy has significantly diminished. Despite the challenges posed by years of turmoil, there remains a resilient spirit amongst the people of Aleppo.

Organizations such as the Aga Khan Trust for Culture are collaborating with government entities to restore significant landmarks in the city, including sections of the Old City and its renowned souk, a historic marketplace that stands as a testament to Aleppo’s cultural heritage. Local officials are also actively working on upgrading essential services, including water and lighting around key tourist attractions.

While the road ahead remains daunting, hopes for the city’s revitalization persist among its inhabitants. Shaar, a participant in initiatives like the Aleppo Project aimed at addressing the city’s reconstruction needs, maintains a positive outlook that infrastructural improvements could materialize in the coming years, given expected increases in revenue from Syria’s oil and gas sectors.

The cultural richness of Aleppo, characterized by its music, art, and culinary traditions, continues to inspire those who cherish its diversity. As the city slowly emerges from the shadows of its troubled past, a growing number of individuals are drawn back to their homes in Aleppo, bringing with them the potential for a vibrant future.

In conclusion, despite the hardships, Aleppo stands resilient, embodying the hope and collective commitment of its people to restore the city’s cultural heritage and community spirit.

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