Damascus: What you don’t know about the oldest continuously populated city in the world

The most ancient inhabited city in the world is Damascus, located in Syria. Damascus is a city with a long history, dating back to the Aramaic era about 5,000 years ago. Or was one of the most important centers in the ancient world. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Aramaea and then of the Roman State. In Damascus there are many sights and archaeological monuments. Despite its ancient history, Damascus is still a vibrant city with rich culture and tradition. The city has undergone many changes during its history, but the traditional architecture and aesthetics of the past are still evident in the streets and buildings. Damascus has unfortunately suffered serious damage during the civil war in Syria, but remains an important political, cultural and economic hub for the wider region, and has often been mentioned in the holy texts of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. The city developed as a shopping centre, mainly due to its geographical location near the meeting point of trade corridors between Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean. It was a hub of commercial activities and the area was controlled by many successive conquerors, including Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Arabs and Ottomans. During the Middle Ages, Damascus was an important centre of science and culture, and was an important destination for pilgrims. During the Ottoman Empire period, the city developed as one of the most important cities in the world, with a wide variety of architecturally exquisite buildings, gardens, markets and attractions. Damascus, too, is known for its religious significance. It was a city that had an important place in Christianity, but also Islam. In Damascus there are several sights related to her religious heritage. Damascus demonstrated a unique architecture, as different cultural influences had left their imprint on the city’s buildings and attractions. The sights include the Ottoman Museum, the Damascus Castle, the Cyclic Road of Ottoman Hamam, the Murta Cemetery, the St Paul’s Church, the Suk Bahamas and much more. Damascus has a long history and many iconic buildings and sights: Azem Palace : This magnificent building was built in the late 18th century and used in the past as a residence of the district chief of Damascus area. The building today houses the Museum of Old and Modern Art. The Great Damascus Mosque : This magnificent mosque was built during the Omayade period in the 8th century and is one of the oldest and most impressive mosques in the world. The interior is decorated with wonderful mosaics and an impressive minaret. St Paul’s Church : This historic church was built during the Roman period and is one of the oldest churches in Damascus. The interior of the church has many beautiful architectural details and walls with mosaics.. The Old City of Damascus : Old Town is one of the oldest areas of the city and is known for its medieval character and its narrow streets. Here you will find many iconic buildings, such as Bab Tuba, Al Abdin Muschu and the Damascus Mint. Kiswa Nou : This traditional area of Damascus is known for its small shops and its traditional atmosphere. Here you will also find the Temple of Goddess Athena and other historical sights.