1926
Since Damascus is at an intersection of many roads the cultivated plants here have an alien character. But no doubt there are also endemic plants here. I had never expected to see such large, thick-skinned grapes as I encountered in the markets of Damascus. The composition of wheat strains turned out to be extremely varied, reflecting influences from both southwestern Asia and the Mediterranean area. Peculiar endemic peas of a montane and Mediterranean type were present there in large amounts. There are important forage plants, which replace barley in the fodder of horses.
According to documents, Damascus has existed for not less than 4000 years. It is possible that its history goes even farther back. This antiquity is demonstrated by the durability of its streets, which seemed to be paved with stones that are rooted in the ground. Even the shops in the market have a character of permanence. In the typical Arabian restaurants, there is unfailingly an irrigation channel with babbling, running water passing under the tables, providing coolness during the summer season. There was also an amusing event. For some reason, after a haircut in the barber shops of Damascus, it is considered good manners to sprinkle the head with alcohol and burn off the facial hair with a flame. The first time this operation is carried out without warning it produces a stunning impression that the whole head is set afire and the client jumps up in terror. However, the affair in general ends happily, to the amusement of the barber.
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