Beit Al-Mamlouka, Damascus

The Suleiman Suite at the Beit Al-Mamlouka

Al-Mamlouka is Damascus's first 'boutique hotel'. It had long been a dream of the owner, May Mamarbachi from Aleppo, to restore an old Damascene house, and the restoration and renovation of this beautiful 17th century house took almost three years, resulting in the opening of the Beit Al-Mamlouka in April 2005.

Reached via the ancient alleys of Damascus, this pink-coloured hotel has painstakingly been restored its former glory. The hotel boasts original paintings and features from the 18th century, together with a mid 16th century archway and a 200 year-old Christian fresco. The hotel is unstinting in its style and blends tradition with luxury.

The hotel has just 8 bedrooms (two singles, two doubles and four suites) and is built around a central courtyard with citrus trees and a fountain.  Each room is decorated in traditional Syrian style using local products. Aleppo brocade is used to make the curtains and the beds are fitted with Damascene quilts. Bathrooms are tiled with hand painted mosaics and drawings (Pictured left: bathroom of the Baybar Suite).  All rooms have minibar, satellite TV and internet access, and have air-conditioning.

The hotel has no restaurant, although arrangements can be made to dine at the hotel.  There are several restaurants nearby.