Al-Attarah (Herbalist / Apothecary)

The profession of al-Attarah is one of the oldest trades in Syria, even older than modern pharmacy, dating back to around 2600 BCE. Herbalists prepared herbs and natural remedies to treat patients, and this craft spread through the ages as part of the popular and traditional medical heritage.

Al-Attarah is especially famous in Damascus, particularly in historic markets such as Al-Bazooriyyeh Market, which stretches between Souq Medhat Pasha and Qasr Azm. Herbal shops are also found in other Syrian cities, including Aleppo, Homs, and Hama.

Today, these markets sell medicinal herbs, spices, grains, dried fruits, perfumes, and traditional remedies, preserving the heritage and cultural identity of this ancient profession.