A train station in Damascus, once a symbol of pride and an essential link between Europe and the Arabian Peninsula, has been left in ruins after more than a decade of war. The Qadam station, part of the iconic Hejaz Railway built under the Ottoman Empire, was damaged during the war between rebel forces and President Bashar Assad's forces. Train operator Mazen Malla, who grew up near the station, hopes that the railway can be revived and become a central part of Syria's economic revival. Neighboring Turkey has expressed interest in restoring the railway line to Damascus as part of efforts to boost trade and investment.