The roots of traditional crafts in Syria extend back thousands of years, and heritage professions are an important part of the culture and heritage. For many centuries, these professions flourished, mastered by grandfathers, fathers, and successive generations, leading to the formation of a unique identity for the Syrian people. Syria is famous for many distinctive traditional crafts, such as carpet and textile making, pottery and glassware, metalwork, wood and leather carving, carrying within them unique symbols and patterns that reflect the country's rich history and heritage.
When we talk about the harsh conditions and their impact on traditional and heritage professions in Syria, we cannot deny the fact that these conditions have caused a significant decline and threat to these professions. The long war and ongoing conflict, the destruction that cities and villages have been subjected to, the mass displacement of people, and the frequent relocation of affected families are all factors that contribute to the weakening and decline of traditional and heritage professions.
A number of skilled craftsmen and industrialists have been forced to leave their homeland in search of better living conditions. This deterioration in the workforce has affected the continuity of these professions and could ultimately lead to their extinction. One of the most important reasons affecting the continuity of these professions is the lack of resources and raw materials needed to practice them. Many handicrafts depend on the use of locally sourced and locally available materials, such as wood, stone, wool, and leather. However, with the destruction of many facilities and farms and the suspension of production operations, it has become difficult to obtain these materials in sufficient quantities and with high quality.
In addition, traditional professions suffer from a lack of funding and support. The war has led to an economic decline and a breakdown of infrastructure, which has negatively impacted the income and economic life of many individuals and communities. In these difficult circumstances, interest in traditional and heritage professions becomes secondary for many, and it is difficult for craftsmen to obtain the financial support and necessary training to develop their skills and innovate in their products.
Moreover, tourism in Syria has been severely affected by the war, meaning a decline in demand for traditional goods and products.