After the fall of Bashar al-Assad, Syrians are now flocking to Mount Qasyun to enjoy a magnificent view over Damascus -- a sight they had been unable to experience for over a decade. After the outbreak of the conflict in 2011, the authorities closed the road leading to Mount Qasyun to civilians. Security checkpoints were set up along the road, as it offers a strategic view over Damascus and its presidential palaces. The army placed artillery emplacements at several points, which were used during the early years of the conflict to shell neighbourhoods in Damascus that were outside its control, as well as nearby cities, particularly in eastern Ghouta. IMAGES AND SOUNDBITES