Sightseeing in Aleppo - what to see. Complete travel guide

Aleppo is one of the oldest cities in the world and the most populous city in Syria. Many historic attractions of Aleppo are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Famous archaeological sites in the suburbs of Aleppo attract both tourists and scientists from all over the world. Narrow and old streets with beautiful buildings, marvelous Arabic bazaars and restaurants, high-class hotels and numerous entertainment centers – this is what tourists will find in this picturesque city.

According to archaeological findings, the first big city on the site of modern Aleppo appeared yet during the 6th millennia BC. During the prehistoric times, this was an important center of trade and warcraft. In the 3rd millennia BC, Aleppo was the capital of the ancient kingdom of Ebla. At the time, Aleppo had another name, Armi. For thousands of years, Aleppo was the epicenter of continuous battles. Many leaders and kings wanted to make this area their own. Invaders completely destroyed the city several times, but each time Aleppo could regain its former glory under the reign of a new leader.

In the 16th century BC, Aleppo became the capital of the Amorite dynasty’s kingdom of Yamhad. At that time, this was the largest and the most powerful kingdom in the Middle East. During the antiquity period, Alexander the Great took over the city, marking the start of a new life for Aleppo. This notable event took place in 333 BC. Muslim leaders took over the city in the 7th century. Aleppo was almost completely destroyed by an earthquake in 1138. At the beginning of the 15th century, the Mongol leader Tamerlane conquered the city. First civil wars emerged yet in the 19th century, and civil unrest remains the main threat to Aleppo even these days. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Despite numerous devastating battles in the past, Aleppo is still not deprived of unique historic landmarks. In the center of the city, there is a beautiful and old citadel that is included in the list of the world’s heritage sites. The building of the citadel started in 944 and lasted more than twenty years. In the past, this was the center of a giant city. Military warehouses and an armory, beautiful palaces and mosques – all of them were built inside the citadel. Nowadays, the majority of these thousand-years-old buildings are in ruins, but the citadel still looks impressive and striking.

The ancient aqueduct, the building of which took place yet during the Roman Empire times, is a no less fantastic landmark. The length of this aqueduct is more than 11 kilometers. This is a giant wall, the height of which is sometimes up to 10 meters.

Al-Halawiyah Madrasa, which dates back to 1124, is one of the main religious landmarks in the city. In the past, there was the Church of Saint Helena on the site of the madrasa, but the building was completely destroyed during one of the crusades. It was decided to rebuild the church as a mosque. Later, the mosque became a madrasa, an Islamic-religious school. Al-Halawiyah Madrasa still has its historical charm.

Both locals and guests of the city enjoy visiting the picturesque parks of Aleppo, and General Park is one of the most popular. This beautiful park is home to many rare species of plants and flowers. The park has a new landscaped design several times a year. There are many cozy and charming areas for fans of seclusion. General Park is also a great location for a photo-shoot.

In Aleppo, vacationers can visit al-Madina Souq, the largest covered historic market in the world. One day is not enough to see all goods for sale at this market. Local merchants offer interesting craftworks, souvenirs, premium textiles, precious metal jewelry, fragrant Arabian spices, and delicacies. There are several cafes at al-Madina Souq that offer traditional and popular food, as well as fantastic coffee.

As the market is located in the Old Town, many tourists visit it during excursions. Vacationers can also book excursions to the neighborhoods of Aleppo and archaeological sites that are open to the general public. Ruins of Ebla are one of the most popular destinations as this was the center of one a prominent and powerful kingdom.

There is an international airport in Aleppo that accommodates flights from numerous European countries, Turkey, and the Middle East. Aleppo railway station, also known as Gare de Baghdad, has connection to Damascus and other cities of the country. Trains from Istanbul also regularly arrive here.