The Syrian capital, Damascus, is regaining some of the spirit that was almost lost after years of war.
With the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, the city is breathing again and this year's Eid al-Fitr preparations are fully underway.
Markets that were once stagnant and fearful are now bustling with people. Vendors loudly call out to their customers, as if to make up for the years of silence and repression they endured. Attempts to restore normal life are evident in every corner of the city.
"The markets are crowded with people, but security personnel are everywhere to provide protection, which provides a sense of security. It is true that the economic situation is very difficult these days, but we hope the situation will improve soon," a resident of Damascus told Euronews.
A vendor at the Al-Hamra Street market told Euronews he noticed the difference in the number of sales.
"The situation is much better than it has been in recent years," he said.
"There is a clear movement in the markets and people feel more comfortable going out to shop. Security stability is the main factor that has created this momentum; people are no longer afraid to go out at night or move between areas as before," he added.
However, this celebration of Eid does not hide the serious economic challenges that continue to burden Syrians. The high prices of basic commodities and the difficulty of securing job opportunities remain major obstacles to attempts at rebuilding a normal life.
Following the fall of Bashar al-Assad, HTS rebel leader Ahmad al-Sharaa became the country's interim president. His appointment was announced after a meeting of the armed groups that joined the overthrow of al-Assad, who also agreed to repeal and replace the country's old constitution.
During Ramadan, al-Sharaa was seen participating in the morning prayers in several different mosques, fostering a new image of leadership that is connected to the people.
The return of the displaced
Since the ouster of former president al-Assad in December, about 1.2 million Syrians have gone home, according to UN statistics.
Among the returnees is Inas, a young woman who immigrated to Sweden in 2015 and returned to attend Eid with her family and friends.
She has fond memories of the old streets of Damascus and plans to visit the places where she used to meet her friends, as well as the Syrian coast, which holds a special place in her heart.
However, upon her return, Inas realised that Syria today is not the same as the one she left years ago. The effects of the war are still visible in the city's infrastructure, but regardless, the new spirit that pervades the country is undeniable.
"Damascus is different now. There is a freedom we never felt before, and people are talking confidently about their future. The markets are full of life, children play in the streets without fear, something that was not possible in the past," Inas remarked.
This Eid, the crescent moon will be visible from the top of Mount Qasioun.
Hundreds of citizens will gather on the mountain to witness this unique moment, which will serve as a symbol of hope, national unity and a return to normal life.
