The Turathuna Foundation was established out of an urgent need to rescue Syrian cultural heritage, born directly from the destruction and the suffering of the stones of Homs. This critical mission was officially formalized when the foundation received its license from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor on December 19, 2019.
Reviving the Orthodox Theater
A central milestone in our history is the comprehensive restoration of the Orthodox Theater in Homs. This landmark holds immense historical significance, standing as the first theater in Homs and Hama, and the second theater in all of Syria. Its legacy is deeply rooted; it served as a vibrant platform for theatrical performances and musical concerts between 1950 and 1970. Later, coinciding with the Corrective Movement, the building became the headquarters for the Homs newspaper.
The historic site features ancient walls and an enduring heritage that dates back to 1986. We led a meticulous restoration process that relied on international standards to preserve the building's absolute authenticity. Guided by a specialized team of experts and engineers, the project utilized traditional materials to strictly maintain the theater's ancient character, ensuring it remains a symbol of the city's cultural and artistic heritage.
Bridging Past and Future Generations
As our foundation grew, we expanded our initiatives to connect the community with its history. Through the "Memory of the Place" project, we began documenting the memories and experiences of individuals who experienced the theater in the past. This was designed to revive the theater's cultural role, motivate youth participation in the arts, and link the past to the present.
Recognizing the impact of the war on the younger generation, we also established the "Heritage Guards Club". This initiative specifically targets adolescents who grew up during the war, raising their awareness, enhancing their sense of belonging, and instilling pride so they can truly appreciate the heritage of Homs.
Expanding Our Footprint
Our historical journey continues through active exploration and community engagement. We initiated the "Sun Trails" project, which involves visiting archaeological buildings and sites to rediscover the city's history and spread awareness about the importance of Syrian heritage.
