Travel Guide to Damascus, Syria

Damascus is a city with ancient history. This is one of the oldest cities in the world and the capital of Syria. First mentions of it are found in XII century BC during the times of Ramses II. Since that time many nations conquered Damascus until it was added to Roman Empire in 85 AD. Old center of Damascus is a unique place with pre-antique planning and houses that survived through centuries from those ancient times. On the territory of Damascus are located several dozens of interesting architectural and historical facilities that are definitely worth visiting. For many years Damascus is famous for its goods made of steel, fabrics and glass. Syria got independence only in 1920 and Damascus was proclaimed its capital.

The main place of interest of the city is Umayyad Mosque built in 715 by Caliph Al Walid. Currently this is one of the most highly valued mosques in the Muslim world. Near the mosque there is a separated place that keeps the head of Hussein and a hair from the beard of the Prophet Muhammad. Umayyad Mosque has a composition of unique mosaics made of gold smalt.

Damascus is included in the list of world’s heritage by UNESCO. In this city you will find ancient medieval merese and markets, Bab Kisan tower, underground church of St. Ananias, one of the best examples of late Islamic architecture - Qasr al-Azem, a former medical academy and hospital Bimaristan that is now used as a museum of medicine with large number of rare exhibits, and a burial vault of XII century where are located the ashes of the legendary sultan Salah al-Din, who started revealing the Arabian East from the Crusades.

Read more about Damascus:
Restaurants and cuisine in Damascus
Local traditions and lifestyle
'Must visit' places in Damascus
Nightlife and attractions in Damascus
Preparing for Damascus: Advices
Damascus photogallery