Memory Statement

Interviews and editing by Zoya Masoud

Dr. Anne Mollenhauer

“The Khusrawiyya complex is interesting in several ways, especially from an architectural point of view. One should imagine how this first Ottoman building in Aleppo, with its fine minaret and big dome, was something new for Aleppines, something they had never experienced before. It must have been a new spatial experience for them, when they entered the inner space of the Khusrawiyya Mosque to see a big void without columns and pillars dividing it. In addition to this is the urban context: the Khusrawiyya complex is located beneath the castle, adjacent to the entrance of the city market and directly on the square, where the weekly market was held. This building cannot be overlooked, as every Aleppine passed through this area and had to see the Khusrawiyya as a memorial of the Ottoman presence in Aleppo.”

Prof. Mamoun Fansa

“When one stands on the top of the Citadel and sees the Khusrawiyya Mosque, he/she doesn’t see only a mosque, but also a cultural centre. One should imagine how the situation was in the 16th century when people were going there to pray and to visit the cultural institution. A man can stay a long time in the Khusrawiyya, a place to practice religious rites as well as a social institution in which everyone can meet. The Khusrawiyya is a pioneering example of how people can coexist and live together.

The Khusrawiyya was built on the idea of social communication among people. In this way, I see tourists, Aleppines and foreigners entering the Khusrawiyya together as a good thing, as they experience exactly what the Khusrawiyya once was. Of course, that view of the Citadel on the Khusrawiyya is magnificent.” 

“I cannot tell you much because I do not know how much damage and destruction occurred. I heard that the Khusrawiyya was severely damaged. In addition, the building of the Umayyad Mosque is still in good condition, except part of its walls which look bad. The reconstruction of these buildings, the Citadel, the Khusrawiyya, and the Umayyad Mosque touches my heart because they are symbols of the Ancient City of Aleppo, whether historically or by creating a social atmosphere. Visitors of the mosque can again become familiar with their cultural identity. The Aleppines’ cultural identity is the basic element that we should support and rebuild.”

Rabiʿ about the Khusrawiyya and the cafes around the Citadel

“I only saw the Khusrawiyya from outside but never entered it, because it was turned to a religious school eventually, therefore, frankly I did not have any interest entering as I don’t have anything to do with people who are learning Islamic law or anything else.”

“The atmosphere was nice in summer, however, in winter I think no one sat there. I always prefer sitting in the cafe shops located across the citadel and on the other site of the old Passports and Immigration Centre. I don’t know what its name became, however, sitting there was nice. For me the coffee and shisha were the best because one doesn’t have to sit in the street to smoke and drink. Moreover, a man can sit inside and enjoy the view on the Citadel with affordable prices for all people. It was better to sit here instead of there but honestly, I forgot its name.”