Saadallah al-Jabiri Square: The Heart of Aleppo
Located at the center of Aleppo, Syria, Saadallah al-Jabiri Square serves as the city's primary town square. Since its opening in 1947, it has functioned as the focal point for the city's most significant celebrations and festivals. The square is named in honor of Saadallah al-Jabiri, a prominent Syrian statesman and former Prime Minister.
Geographically, the square is situated on Majd al-Deen al-Jabiri street, which intersects it from the east, while Kamel al-Ghazzi street connects from the west. It sits adjacent to the Aleppo Public Park. Interestingly, the urban layout of the square and its surrounding buildings and roads covers portions of the stream bed of the Queiq River.
Key Facts
- Established: 1947
- Location: Majd al-Deen al-Jabiri street, Aleppo, Syria
- Ownership: City of Aleppo
- Primary Use: Central hub for festivals, celebrations, and civic gatherings
- Key Landmarks: Statue of Saadallah al-Jabiri, Martyrs' memorial, and the "I love Aleppo" monument
Monuments and Landmarks
Statue of Saadallah al-Jabiri
On the southern side of the square stands a statue of the square's namesake, Saadallah al-Jabiri. The statue faces the main plaza and is positioned with its back to a small park also named in his honor.
The Martyrs' Memorial
The northern section of the square features a monument dedicated to Syrian martyrs. Created between 1984 and 1985 by the native Aleppine sculptor Abd al-Rahman Mowakket, the piece was crafted from traditional Aleppine yellow stone.
In July 2025, the memorial became the center of significant controversy after it was damaged during an official attempt to relocate it. The government stated the move was intended to clear the view for a new large screen. However, critics suggested the damage might have been ideologically motivated due to the monument's depiction of human figures, which some interpretations of Islamic doctrine consider haram (prohibited). The Governor of Aleppo, Azzam al-Gharib, denied these claims, asserting the damage was accidental and unprofessional. He confirmed the monument would be restored and moved to the National Museum of Aleppo.
"I love Aleppo" Monument
Introduced as part of square renovations and revealed on September 29, 2017, the "I love Aleppo" monument was initially placed near the martyrs' memorial before being moved to the opposite side of the square. Following the capture of the city by opposition factions during the 2024 Battle of Aleppo in November 2024, the monument was repainted in the colors of the Syrian revolution flag.
Urban Evolution and Conflict
Renovations and Infrastructure
The Aleppo City Council has sought to modernize the square to address urban challenges. In February 2010, plans were announced to rehabilitate the area to alleviate traffic congestion in the city center. More recently, the Aleppo Governorate launched a new design plan in 2025, culminating in an opening celebration on June 30, 2025.
The 2012 Bombings
The square suffered a devastating attack on October 3, 2012. Three suicide car bombs exploded in the vicinity, causing heavy damage to the square and surrounding buildings. The attack resulted in 40 deaths and 122 injuries. Responsibility for the bombings was claimed by the Al-Nusra Front, an affiliate of Al-Qaeda.
Summary of Square Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Opening Year | 1947 |
| Primary Material (Martyrs' Memorial) | Aleppine yellow stone |
| Major Intersecting Streets | Majd al-Deen al-Jabiri and Kamel al-Ghazzi |
| Key Event (2012) | Suicide bombings (40 killed, 122 injured) |
| Recent Redesign Opening | June 30, 2025 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the square named after?
The square is named after Saadallah al-Jabiri, who was a prominent Syrian statesman and former Prime Minister.
What happened to the Martyrs' memorial in 2025?
The memorial was damaged during a failed attempt to relocate it to the National Museum of Aleppo. While officials called it an accident, some observers speculated the damage was ideologically motivated due to the depiction of human figures.
What is the significance of the "I love Aleppo" monument?
Revealed in 2017, it is a modern landmark of the square. It gained further political significance in November 2024 when it was repainted in the colors of the Syrian revolution flag after opposition forces took the city.
How has the square's infrastructure changed?
The square has undergone multiple renovations, including a 2010 initiative to reduce traffic congestion and a comprehensive redesign that was celebrated in June 2025.
What occurred at the square in October 2012?
Three suicide car bombs exploded in the square, killing 40 people and injuring 122 others. The Al-Nusra Front claimed responsibility for the attack.