The relocation of the statue of Saladin from in front of the Citadel of Damascus to the October War Panorama Square has sparked controversy, amid comments from Kurds recalling his historical origins and Kurdish identity.
On Saturday, October 10, 2026, the statue of Saladin was moved from its position in front of the Citadel of Damascus to the October War Panorama Square, according to Syrian media outlets. The move drew reactions and criticism, including a comment by the Kurdish academic and professor, Serbest Nebi.
Commenting on the relocation via his Telegram account, Serbest Nebi wrote: “I suggest they also remove Saladin’s tomb so that he can be reburied in his homeland (Kurdistan), and we can be done with it.”
Designed by the late Syrian sculptor Abdullah al-Sayyed in 1993, the statue is considered one of the most prominent landmarks associated with the Citadel of Damascus. It depicts Saladin mounted on his horse, in a scene evoking his historical stature.
Saladin, who was of Kurdish origin and named Youssef ibn Ayyub, is among the most prominent commanders in Islamic history. He is renowned for his military leadership that culminated in the recapture of Jerusalem from the Crusaders in 1187 following his victory at the Battle of Hattin.
The relocation of the statue comes at a time when changing the site of one of the capital’s well-known historical landmarks has generated widespread engagement, given Saladin’s historical symbolism among various groups, including the Kurds, who evoke his origins and historical heritage.
Note: This text is translated from the original Arabic version… Read the Arabic version:Click here
