Syria's capital, Damascus, intrigues travellers. As one of the
oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the world, it brims with
history and culture. Visitors usually gravitate towards Umayyad
Mosque, the Roman walls and gates, biblical sites and the city's
bustling markets.
The capital's wealth of historical sites date back to many
different periods. Mosques, churches, the old city walls and
ancient
testify to the occupation of Greeks and Romans,
Persians, Christians, and the Islamic Umayyad Empire.
Biblically speaking, Damascus was the capital of the Aramean
Kingdom in the 11th century BC. It was also where the apostle Paul
converted to Christianity and started the early church. However,
the city's most glorious days were as the capital of the Umayyad
Empire. The Umayyad Mosque, or Grand Mosque of Damascus, is one of
the biggest in the world. Sadly, the Syrian Civil War has left the
holy site in ruins, though it is still remarkable.
That said, travellers are strongly advised to stay out all parts
of Syria, as the country is an active conflict zone.