Statue of Saladin, Bronze equestrian monument at Damascus Citadel, Syria.
The Statue of Saladin is a bronze equestrian monument positioned in front of Damascus Citadel, depicting the military leader mounted on horseback. The sculpture is flanked by two Muslim soldiers on one side and two Crusader prisoners on the other, all cast in bronze.
The monument was created in 1993 by sculptor Abd Allah al-Sayed to mark the 800th anniversary of Saladin's death and his victories against the Crusaders. Its construction reflected a period when the city renewed focus on its historical legacy.
The monument represents Saladin as a symbol of unity and resistance against foreign invasion, a role deeply embedded in how Damascus residents understand their region's past. The sculptures of soldiers and prisoners around him reflect how this historical moment is remembered and discussed in daily life.
The monument stands prominently in front of Damascus Citadel, making it easily accessible for visitors exploring the historical quarter. The open plaza provides good sightlines from multiple angles, allowing you to see the sculpture's details clearly.
The image of the statue appears on the Syrian 200-pound banknote, underscoring its importance to national identity. This placement on currency demonstrates how deeply the monument is embedded in how the nation sees itself.
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