| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Maktab Anbar (Arabic: مكتب عنبر) |
| Location | Old City of Damascus, near Umayyad Mosque & Straight Street |
| Built | Mid‑19th century by merchant Yusuf Anbar |
| Original Use | Grand private mansion spanning ~3,800–5,000 m² |
| Later Uses | Boys’ school, girls’ school, now cultural center, library, museum & workshops |
| Architecture Style | Traditional Damascene with Ottoman-Baroque touches, three courtyards |
| Current Role | Cultural hub under Old City Directorate |
| Entrance & Visiting | Open during regular office hours; small or no entry fee |
| Photography | Allowed in courtyards and exhibitions |
| Best Time to Visit | Weekday mornings for quiet exploration |
Nestled in the heart of Old Damascus, Maktab Anbar is a monumental mid‑19th‑century mansion originally built by the affluent Jewish merchant Yusuf Anbar. Spanning nearly 4,000 m² with three distinct courtyards for reception, women’s quarters, and servants, it is the largest historic residence inside the city walls. Though unfinished due to bankruptcy, it was later transformed into prestigious boys’ and girls’ schools under Ottoman and Syrian administration. Fully restored in the 1970s, the elegant architecture now serves as a vibrant cultural center, housing a library, exhibition hall, museum, and craft workshops. A must‑see heritage landmark in Damascus.
Why Visit?
- Immerse yourself in one of Damascus’s largest and most ornate 19th-century residences, showcasing Damascene and Ottoman-Baroque design.
- Discover the building’s historical role in education, including nationalist leaders who studied there, such as poet Nizar Qabbani and President Shukri al‑Quwatli.
- Explore library space, exhibitions, craft workshops, and quiet courtyards offering a contrast to the bustling souqs.
How to Reach
The building is located about 300 meters southeast of the Umayyad Mosque, near Straight Street in the Al‑Qaymariya neighborhood. It’s easily walkable from major Old City landmarks, or a short taxi drop-off at one of the nearby gate entrances will do—just ask for “Maktab Anbar.”
What to Know Before You Go
- Visit during government office hours (typically morning to early afternoon; closed Fridays).
- Entry is free or minimal, often waived for public events.
- Wear modest clothing, as the site also functions for official and cultural activities. Photography allowed—especially in courtyards and exhibits.
- Allow 1 hour or more to fully appreciate the architecture and displays.
Nearby Attractions
- Umayyad Mosque – Iconic site just a short walk away.
- Straight Street (Via Recta) – Historic Roman-era thoroughfare.
- Azem Palace – Ottoman governor’s mansion turned museum nearby.
- Khan As’ad Pasha – Stunning 18th-century caravanserai in Al-Buzuriyah Souq.
- Other Old Damascene houses like Bayt al‑Mamlouka and Beit al‑Aqqad.
