Tucked away on the western side of the Damascus Citadel lies a peaceful escape from the city’s hustle and bustle—the Eco Garden. This isn’t just another park; it’s a vibrant space full of flowers, greenery, and calm vibes that invite you to take a breather from everyday chaos.
The story behind the Eco Garden is inspiring. A group of passionate women saw potential in what was once a neglected, trash-filled lot. Wanting to bring life back to this space—especially with its location near iconic landmarks like the Umayyad Mosque and Barada River—they decided to turn it into something extraordinary. With support from the Syrian Environment Association, the project bloomed into Syria’s first eco-park.
When the project began, the first challenge was identifying the right plants for the region. Due to the lack of resources, they relied on self-driven research and meticulous efforts to determine which plant species and trees to cultivate. Finally, the garden was officially opened in 2005.
To ensure its sustainability, a traditional Damascene-style café was opened within the garden, making it the first place in Syria to prohibit smoking. The income generated from the café helps cover the garden’s needs for seeds, fertilizers, and gardening tools, ensuring its continued growth and upkeep.
The Eco Garden in Damascus spans about 2,500 square meters and is divided into around 30 small islands, each enclosed by a fence. Each island features plants with shared characteristics, such as: the Shade Plants Island, the Rock Plants Island, the Old Decorative Plants Island, the Forest Island, the Water Island, and the Jasmine Island, whose fragrance fills the entire garden.
The garden is home to approximately 300 plant species, representing about 10% of Syria’s native plants. It brings together the most significant plants from the Damascus region, including those found in traditional Syrian homes, the Ghouta of Damascus, and even the plants from the Barada Valley.
During the challenging years of the crisis, significant efforts were made to keep the Eco Garden thriving. One of the key initiatives was building a greenhouse to create a controlled environment for preserving seeds and replanting them season after season.
The garden remains open to visitors of all ages, free of charge. It’s a favorite spot for young students to explore and learn about different plant species. It is also a resource hub for university students conducting research or studying the diverse samples of plants on display.
The Eco Garden isn’t just for relaxation—it’s also an educational hotspot. Schools and universities bring students here to learn about plants. The garden even hosts cultural events like poetry nights and music performances. It’s become a meeting place for anyone who loves nature, quiet moments, and a touch of creativity.
Looking for a peaceful escape or just some time surrounded by greenery? The Eco Garden is waiting for you. It’s where Damascus slows down, and nature takes over. Find the location here.
For everyone who can’t get enough of the nature of Syria, visit our Nature section on the website!