Syrians visit former Assad residence in Damascus

Dozens of Syrians entered the residence of former President Bashar al-Assad in Damascus after his departure, experiencing a mix of defiance and curiosity, according to an AFP report.

Abu Omar, 44, expressed his emotions while exploring the luxurious home. “I am taking pictures because I am so happy to be here in the middle of his house,” he told AFP, showing photos stored on his mobile phone. He added, “I came for revenge. They oppressed us in incredible ways.”

The residence, located in the affluent al-Maliki neighbourhood, consists of three six-story buildings and had long symbolised the authority of al-Assad’s regime.

Umm Nader, 35, who visited the compound with her husband, said she wanted to see a place that had been off-limits to ordinary Syrians. “I came to see this place that we were banned from because they wanted us to live in poverty and deprivation,” she said.

The home, once shrouded in fear and secrecy, now serves as a reminder of the Assads' rule as citizens explore its opulence.