Barjis (or Barsis) Game

Barjis, also called Barsis, is a traditional board game with Indian origins, introduced to the region by Syrians in the early 20th century. The game is over 200 years old.

Traditionally, the game was played in Syrian homes, especially in Damascus, where children learned by watching adults play.

The game is based on moving the pieces across square houses according to the roll of the dice-like stick (the "wada‘"). Two teams race to move their pieces to the “kitchen,” the large square in the center of the board.

Barjis is part of Syria’s popular heritage, reflecting the skill, strategy, and group entertainment enjoyed by generations of Syrians.