Aleppo Citadel
The Aleppo Citadel, known in Arabic as قلعة حلب, is situated in the heart of the ancient city of Aleppo in northern Syria. This impressive medieval fortress is one of the oldest and largest castles in the world. Over the centuries, it has witnessed multiple occupations by various powers, including the Byzantines, Greeks, Ayyubids, and Mamluks. Notably, the majority of the current architectural elements date back to the Ayyubid period.
City of Busra
Located in southern Syria, the ancient city of Busra has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1980. This city serves as a confluence of early Islamic, Byzantine, and Roman civilizations. Among its remarkable structures are the Roman theater built during the reign of Trajan, along with numerous columns and arches. Additionally, the Umari Mosque, which dates back to 721 AD, stands as one of the oldest surviving mosques from the Islamic era.
City of Palmyra
Palmyra is situated over 160.93 kilometers northeast of Damascus. This ancient city traces its origins back to the third millennium BCE, initially emerging as a small settlement in the desert oases. It later flourished into a significant urban center in the Near East and became an essential stop on the Silk Road connecting Asia to modern Europe. The city showcases a blend of architectural styles, including Arab, Persian, Greek, and Roman influences. Surrounding Palmyra, the fertile land is nourished by a series of springs and is abundant with date palm trees.
The Umayyad Mosque
The Umayyad Mosque, also referred to as the Great Mosque of Aleppo, is one of the most significant historical mosques within the walled city of Aleppo. Its construction began on a site that once housed a temple during the Hellenistic era, with the mosque itself being built in the 8th century. The mosque underwent renovations in the 11th century, during which a fountain was added to its main courtyard, along with a towering minaret that rises 45 meters high.