Sightseeing in Damascus - what to see. Complete travel guide

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. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Among walking fans, is very popular Mount Qasioun, whose height is 456 meters. At the top of this mountain is located a magnificent observation deck with which the magnificent panorama of the city opens. Experienced travelers recommend visiting this observation deck in the dark or at sunset; at this time it is especially interesting to admire the city. Mount Qasioun is also known for the fact that, on one of its slopes is an amazing cave. If you believe the ancient traditions, it is in this cave which is called Maqam al Arba’in, that Cain killed Abel.

Among the numerous religious sights of Damascus, Chapel of Saint Ananias should be noted. This underground Christian temple was built during the antiquity era. Up to now, the crypt has kept a set of unique elements for decoration and also unique religious artifacts. In antique times, the people professing Christianity suffered awful persecution. Therefore, many temples during this period were built underground. Only a few of them have survived until now. The Chapel of Saint Ananias is a pilgrimage of world-class importance.

Guests of Damascus will have an opportunity to admire the beauty of many majestic palaces; one of the most picturesque is the Qasr al-Azem. Its construction was completed at the beginning of the 18th century, the beautiful palace served as the residence of the governor. This palace was built according to all cultural traditions; its area is divided into men's and female’s halves. On the territory of the palace, there is an ancient bath complex, which impresses with its beauty. In the palace, the atmosphere of previous centuries was recreated, and to make an excursion in this place is even more interesting. In various rooms, the wax figures of people dressed in national clothes was installed.

Azm Palace is equally beautiful and interesting. Externally it looks quite modest, but its elegant interior design is capable of surprising even the most experienced travelers. When decorating the palace in the 18th century, precious metals were used. For this purpose, locals actively bought up jewelries. Today, within the walls of the palace, stylish decoration elements of gold and precious stones have been preserved. There is also an inner courtyard with ancient fountains.