The Umayyad Mosque in Damascus, Syria is one of the most important religious sites in the Islamic world. It is the fourth holiest mosque in Islam, and is believed to be the place where the head of John the Baptist is buried. The mosque is also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus, and it is considered to be one of the oldest continuously used places of worship in the world. Visiting the Umayyad Mosque is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed by any traveler to Syria. Here are 10 things to do when visiting the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus.
1. Admire the Architecture: The Umayyad Mosque is a beautiful and impressive structure that has been built over the centuries. It features an impressive courtyard, a grand prayer hall, and a stunning minaret. The mosque is also decorated with intricate mosaics, wood carvings, and stone sculptures.
2. Visit the Shrine of John the Baptist: The Umayyad Mosque is home to the Shrine of John the Baptist, which is believed to be the place where his head is buried. The shrine is a popular destination for pilgrims and visitors alike.
3. Explore the Courtyard: The courtyard of the Umayyad Mosque is a great place to explore. It is filled with fountains, trees, and benches, and it is a great place to relax and take in the beauty of the mosque.
4. Climb the Minaret: The Umayyad Mosque features a stunning minaret that is over 200 feet tall. Climbing the minaret is a great way to get a bird’s eye view of the city of Damascus.
5. Visit the Crypt: The Umayyad Mosque features a crypt that is believed to contain the remains of several important figures in Islamic history. The crypt is open to visitors, and it is a great place to learn more about Islamic history.
6. Attend a Prayer Service: The Umayyad Mosque is an active place of worship, and visitors are welcome to attend the daily prayer services. It is a great way to experience the culture and religion of the Islamic faith.
7. Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours of the Umayyad Mosque are available for visitors. These tours provide a great way to learn more about the history and significance of the mosque.
8. Shop at the Souk: The Umayyad Mosque is located next to the Souk, which is a great place to shop for souvenirs and other items. The Souk is filled with shops, restaurants, and cafes, and it is a great place to explore.
9. Try the Local Cuisine: The Umayyad Mosque is located in the heart of Damascus, and there are many restaurants and cafes nearby. Try some of the local cuisine, such as hummus, shawarma, and kabobs.
10. Visit the National Museum: The National Museum of Damascus is located near the Umayyad Mosque, and it is a great place to learn more about the history and culture of Syria. The museum features artifacts from ancient civilizations, as well as modern art and sculptures.
Visiting the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus is an unforgettable experience that should not be missed by any traveler to Syria. From admiring the architecture to exploring the courtyard and climbing the minaret, there are plenty of things to do when visiting the Umayyad Mosque.