Nostalgia
The 13 Things You Find At Every Grandparent’s House
Every old item in our grandparents’ house held a story, and every corner had a tale. Each thing we saw brought back memories of being there. Here are 13 unforgettable things you can always find in every grandparent’s house, back when life was simpler and filled with love and warmth.
Credits: Syrian Anchors
1. Haown w Eid el-Haown (Mortar and Pestle)
Grandmas would use the copper mortar, grinding garlic and chili to prepare winter preserves, like “makdous.”
2. Fanous, Qandeel el-Kaz, and “Louks” (Lantern and “Lux”)
These were the companions of winter nights, lighting the house when the power went out. The family would gather around it, and when the wick dimmed, it was bedtime.
3. Jern w Middeqa (Stone Bowl and Pounder)
Additionally, this was for making “kibbeh.” Women in the family would gather to prepare the best kibbeh, adding a unique taste to their gatherings.
٤. Yasmeen el-Aratli (Jasmine Vine)
The fragrance of local jasmine from the balcony or doorway filled the house. Almost every old Damascene home had one.
5. Maakinat el-Khayata, Marka el-Farasha (Butterfly Brand Sewing Machine)
Many remember finding their grandmas using this machine to embroider pillows, covers, and beautiful pieces, mending clothes for the whole family.
6. Television el-Adeem (Old TV)
This TV gathered the family, offering shows that everyone enjoyed together. When visiting grandpa’s, it was rare to turn it off.
7. Masaand w Mkhaddat Matraza (Embroidered Cushions and Pillows)
Grandmas would take pillows to the seamstress, choosing designs of birds, flowers, and phrases like “Good Morning” or “Sweet Dreams.” Afterward, she’d embroider them, and they made for the most peaceful sleep.
٨. Vitrina (Glass Cabinet)
Not only it was filled with antique dishes and bowls in the guest room, but also no one dared touch them especially the glasses.
9. Shun Romeo w Juliet (Romeo and Juliet Plates)
Part of the bride’s dowry set…do you still have one?
١٠. Sa’at el-Heet (Wall Clock)
The large wall clock, only adjusted by grandpa.
11. Finjan el-Qahwa el-Dhahabi (Golden Coffee Cup)
It was reserved for special guests and gave coffee a unique taste, unlike any other cup.
12. Taaset el-Ra’aba (Fear Cup)
Made of copper with Quranic verses, however, kids would drink from it after getting scared, hoping to calm their fears.
13. Qumqum (Perfume Sprinkler)
Filled with rose or orange blossom water, it was used to sprinkle guests at celebrations.