The Sacrophagus Of Castor

Douma’s main square, home to the sarcophagus of Castor, servant of the god of health and medicine, was expanded in the 1950s by former municipality head Rashid Maatouq. At that time, the old Khan Al-Hachem was removed to allow trucks and cars access to the souk. Built in 1881, the khan housed horses and donkeys while goods were unloaded into the market. The main gate of the souk was also taken down that year. The sarcophagus, discovered in the early 19th century, bears an inscription decoded by Ernest Renan in 1860 warning against selling the site, with a fine to ensure it remains property of Castor’s heirs.