Syria Today | The House of Pomegranates

The House of Pomegranates

Words Monty Pounder
Photo Manaf Hassan

Beit Rumman, an intimate and discrete six-bedroom boutique hotel in the Old City of Damascus, is the latest Beit Arabi to be brought back to life. This 17th-century Bab Touma home has been lovingly coxed back to its former glory over a four-and-a-half-year period. The result is an exquisite showcase of traditional Damascene craftsmanship and architecture, giving visitors an insight into the Syrian life of old.

Beit Rumman’s owners, who asked to remain anonymous, said their goal was to restore, rather than renovate, the property, preserving the historical importance of the house as an example of Damascus’ heritage. It didn’t take craftsmen working on the project long to discover a number of hidden treasures. Under layers of cement and paint lay riches such as delicate stone mosaics and ablaq masonry, a technique traditional to Syria in which alternating bands of light and dark stone (in this case white, black and yellow) are used. Each of Beit Rumman’s (Pomegranate House) traditionally decorated bedrooms feature the original arches, hand-made ceramics (kishani), intricate hand-painted ceilings, shell-designed doors and moucharabieh (carved wooden latticework) designs.

Working in cooperation with local craftsmen, the owners sourced all the necessary skills for the restoration from within Damascus. The various artisans came from families who have been practicing their craft for generations. While working to keep the property true to form, the owners have nevertheless added several personal additions such as a charming pomegranate fruit and flower motif which runs as a subtle theme throughout the building and from which the hotel now takes its name.

One of Beit Rumman’s strongest points is the balance it strikes between historic ambience and modern comfort. While containing all luxury amenities, the owners have maintained the property’s authenticity by tucking modern comforts like air-conditioning and mini-bars out of site.

Another of Beit Rumman’s surprises is its 15th-century cellar. Not originally part of the current building, the cellar now serves as a wine and cheese-tasting room, with plans for a library underway. This atmospheric space is certainly the highlight of the hotel. While the cellar remains for the exclusive use of hotel guests, it can be rented for private functions.

Beit Rumman is intimate, discreet and tranquil. The hotel is an oasis of calm in the bustle of the Old City. For tourists interested in historical Damascus, Beit Rumman provides ideal accommodation. While some guests may prefer a larger hotel, most will be won over by its traditional beauty, tranquility and central location.