Historic Damascus Hotel Reopens, Defying Decade of War

A landmark luxury hotel in Syria's capital has reopened after being closed for 12 years. The Khan Suleiman Pasha Hotel in Old Damascus is now accepting guests again. The hotel first opened in 1991. It shut down in 2012 as Syria’s civil war made travel to the country almost impossible. The conflict caused widespread destruction and a deep economic crisis. The owner spent two years repairing the building. He said the project was difficult because of international sanctions. Sanctions are economic penalties designed to pressure the Syrian government. The hotel is inside a historic merchant house from the 18th century. It has a traditional courtyard and 17 rooms. Officials hope its reopening signals a slow return of tourism to the ancient city. Syria remains largely isolated, and most foreign governments still advise against travel there. The hotel's revival is a symbolic step for a nation slowly emerging from conflict.