Damascus is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that dates back to the second millennium BC. This ancient city has seen many different cultures and civilizations come and go, leaving behind a rich and diverse heritage that can still be seen today. From its bustling souks to its ancient monuments, Damascus is an incredible place to explore and discover. Here are the top 20 places to see in Damascus, Syria.
1. Umayyad Mosque: One of the most important religious sites in the world, the Umayyad Mosque is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. Located in the old city of Damascus, this mosque was built in the 8th century and is home to the tomb of John the Baptist.
2. Souk al-Hamidiyah: This bustling market is one of the oldest in the Middle East, with a history that dates back to the 14th century. Explore the winding alleyways and discover a variety of goods, from traditional clothing to handmade jewelry.
3. Bab Touma: This ancient gate was built in the 4th century and is the main entrance to the old city of Damascus. It is a great spot to take a photo and admire the beautiful architecture.
4. National Museum of Damascus: Located in the old city, the National Museum of Damascus is a great place to learn about the history of Syria. The museum has a large collection of artifacts from different periods in Syrian history.
5. Damascus Citadel: This ancient fortress was built in the 12th century and is one of the most impressive landmarks in the city. It is a great place to explore and learn about the history of Damascus.
6. Azm Palace: Built in the 18th century, the Azm Palace is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. Take a tour of the palace and admire the beautiful interior and exterior.
7. Saladin’s Tomb: Located in the old city of Damascus, this tomb is dedicated to the famous Muslim leader Saladin. It is a great place to learn about his life and legacy.
8. Al-Rabwa Mosque: This mosque was built in the 16th century and is an important religious site in the city. It is a great place to admire the beautiful Islamic architecture.
9. Al-Azem Palace: Built in the 18th century, the Al-Azem Palace is a stunning example of Ottoman architecture. Take a tour of the palace and admire the beautiful interior and exterior.
10. Sayeda Zeinab Mosque: This mosque is dedicated to the granddaughter of the Prophet Muhammad and is a popular pilgrimage site. Visit the mosque and admire the beautiful Islamic architecture.
11. Al-Hamidiyah Souk: This bustling market is one of the oldest in the Middle East, with a history that dates back to the 14th century. Explore the winding alleyways and discover a variety of goods, from traditional clothing to handmade jewelry.
12. Damascus Opera House: This impressive building was built in the 19th century and is one of the most important cultural sites in Damascus. Take a tour of the opera house and admire the beautiful interior and exterior.
13. Al-Qasr: This ancient palace was built in the 12th century and is one of the most impressive landmarks in the city. It is a great place to explore and learn about the history of Damascus.
14. Al-Shaghour: This ancient neighborhood was once home to many of the city’s wealthy merchants. Take a walk through the winding alleyways and admire the beautiful architecture.
15. Damascus Central Library: This impressive building was built in the 19th century and is one of the most important cultural sites in Damascus. Take a tour of the library and admire the beautiful interior and exterior.
16. Al-Sakhra Mosque: This mosque was built in the 12th century and is one of the most important religious sites in the city. It is a great place to admire the beautiful Islamic architecture.
17. Al-Shaalan Castle: This impressive castle was built in the 12th century and is one of the most impressive landmarks in the city. It is a great place to explore and learn about the history of Damascus.
18. Al-Sultan Mosque: This mosque was built in the 16th century and is an important religious site in the city. It is a great place to admire the beautiful Islamic architecture.
19. Damascus University: This impressive university was founded in the 19th century and is one of the most important educational institutions in the city. Take a tour of the university and admire the beautiful architecture.
20. Al-Qalaa: This ancient fortress was built in the 12th century and is one of the most impressive landmarks in the city. It is a great place to explore and learn about the history of Damascus.