Dimashq
· SY

Dimashq

Dimashq, Syria

Step into Time in Damascus: A City of Ancient Souls and Modern Heart Damascus, known as Dimashq in Arabic, is not just a city, it's a living tapestry woven with threads of history dating back millennia. As one of the old…

#Middle East#War-torn#Historic#Capital city#Cultural
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Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Dimashq.

Top Hotels in Dimashq

Top Flights to Dimashq

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Dimashq.

Tours

Explore the Ancient City of Damascus

Wander through the ancient streets of Damascus and discover its rich history and culture.

Shopping

Souq al-Hamidiyah Shopping

Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Damascus's most famous souq.

Outdoor

Hiking in Mount Qasioun

A popular spot for locals to hike, providing panoramic views of the city of Damascus.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers
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Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Dimashq.

Currency
£S | SYP | Syrian Pound
Population
The approximate estimated total population of Dimashq (Damascus), Syria, is 2.6 million.
Languages
Arabic, English, French

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Dimashq.

What people love

Traveling to Dimashq (Damascus), the capital of Syria, can offer a variety of experiences, though it's important to acknowledge the ongoing complexities and safety concerns due to the political situation. Here are some potential pros of visiting Damascus:

  1. Historical Significance: Damascus is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It has a rich history that spans thousands of years, offering a unique glimpse into ancient civilizations and cultures.

  2. Cultural Heritage: The city is home to numerous historical sites and landmarks, such as the Umayyad Mosque, one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world. Visitors can explore the Old City, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its ancient streets, souks, and architectural treasures.

  3. Architectural Wonders: The city's architecture is a blend of various influences, including Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic styles. This offers a fascinating exploration of different eras through its buildings and urban layout.

  4. Rich Culinary Scene: Damascus offers a variety of traditional Syrian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy local dishes such as kebabs, hummus, falafel, and a wide array of sweets and pastries.

  5. Cultural Experience: The city provides an opportunity to experience Syrian culture, including traditional music, dance, and arts. Engaging with the local population can offer insights into their way of life and hospitality.

  6. Natural Beauty: The surrounding region offers beautiful landscapes, including mountains and greenery, providing opportunities for outdoor activities and exploration.

While there are many positive aspects of visiting Damascus, potential travelers should stay informed about the current situation in Syria, including any travel advisories or safety concerns. It is crucial to prioritize safety and be aware of the local conditions before planning a visit.

What to know

Traveling to Dimashq, Syria, which is the Arabic name for Damascus, the capital city of Syria, comes with several potential cons due to the ongoing conflict and instability in the country. Here are some detailed reasons why traveling to Dimashq, Syria, may not be advisable:

  1. Safety Concerns: Syria has been experiencing a civil war since 2011, resulting in ongoing violence, bombings, and armed conflict throughout the country. The security situation in Dimashq is volatile, with the risk of terrorist attacks, clashes between government and opposition forces, and general lawlessness. Travelers could be caught in the crossfire or become targets for violence.

  2. Political Instability: The political situation in Syria is complex, with multiple factions vying for power. Foreign visitors may inadvertently become involved in political tensions or find themselves targeted due to their nationality.

  3. Travel Restrictions and Limited Infrastructure: Due to the conflict, many areas in Syria, including Dimashq, have limited access for travelers. Infrastructure such as roads, airports, and basic services may be damaged or unreliable, making travel within the country difficult and potentially dangerous.

  4. Health and Safety Risks: The conflict in Syria has had a severe impact on the healthcare system, leading to shortages of medical supplies, personnel, and facilities. Travelers may struggle to access adequate healthcare in case of emergencies or illnesses.

  5. Kidnapping and Extortion: Foreigners, including tourists, have been targeted for kidnapping and extortion by various armed groups in Syria. The risk of being held captive for ransom is a serious concern for travelers.

  6. Lack of Consular Assistance: Many countries have closed their embassies or consulates in Syria due to the security situation, making it difficult for travelers to receive assistance in case of emergencies or legal issues.

  7. Cultural and Religious Sensitivities: Syria is a conservative Muslim-majority country with strict social customs and laws. Travelers, especially women, LGBTQ individuals, and those from different religious backgrounds, may face discrimination or harassment.

Considering these factors, it is strongly advised to avoid traveling to Dimashq, Syria, at this time due to the serious risks involved. Your safety and well-being should be the top priority when planning any trip.

Dimashq, more commonly known in English as Damascus, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. It serves as the capital of Syria and has a rich history that spans several millennia, encompassing significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks.

Ancient and Classical History

  • Early History: Damascus is believed to have been inhabited since at least the 3rd millennium BCE. It was mentioned in ancient Egyptian texts and was a prominent city in the Amorite kingdom around 2000 BCE.
  • Aramean Kingdom: Around the 10th century BCE, Damascus became the capital of the Aramean kingdom. It was a significant political and cultural center during this period.
  • Assyrian and Babylonian Rule: Damascus fell to the Assyrians in 732 BCE under Tiglath-Pileser III and later came under Babylonian control.
  • Persian and Hellenistic Periods: After the Babylonian period, Damascus was incorporated into the Achaemenid Persian Empire and later conquered by Alexander the Great in 333 BCE. It subsequently became part of the Seleucid Empire.
  • Roman Era: Damascus became a part of the Roman Empire in 64 BCE. It was a major city in the Roman province of Syria, known for its architectural and cultural developments.

Byzantine and Islamic Conquest

  • Byzantine Period: Damascus remained under Byzantine control after the division of the Roman Empire. It was a prosperous city during this period.
  • Islamic Conquest: In 635 CE, Damascus was conquered by Muslim Arab forces under the Rashidun Caliphate. It became the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate in 661 CE under Caliph Muawiya I.

Umayyad Caliphate

  • Umayyad Capital: As the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate, Damascus flourished, becoming a center of Islamic power and culture. The Great Umayyad Mosque, one of the most important landmarks in the city, was constructed during this time.

Abbasid and Later Islamic Dynasties

  • Abbasid Period: The capital of the Islamic empire was moved to Baghdad in 750 CE, but Damascus remained an important regional center.
  • Ayyubid and Mamluk Periods: Damascus was part of the Ayyubid dynasty under Saladin and later the Mamluks, who fortified the city and constructed many of its notable structures.

Ottoman Empire

  • Ottoman Rule: Damascus became part of the Ottoman Empire in 1516. It was a provincial capital and an important stop for pilgrims on the way to Mecca.

Modern History

  • French Mandate: After World War I, Damascus came under French control as part of the League of Nations mandate. It was the center of Syrian nationalist movements.
  • Independence: Syria gained independence in 1946, and Damascus became the capital of the newly independent country.

Recent History

  • Syrian Civil War: Since 2011, Damascus has been significantly impacted by the Syrian Civil War. The city has seen conflict and has been central to political developments in the country.

Significant Figures

  • Saladin: The famous Muslim leader and sultan who founded the Ayyubid dynasty, known for his role in the Crusades, had a significant presence in Damascus.
  • Muawiya I: The first Umayyad caliph who established Damascus as the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate.

Important Landmarks

  • Umayyad Mosque: Also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus, it is one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world, with a rich history and architectural significance.
  • Citadel of Damascus: A large medieval fortified palace in the Old City of Damascus.
  • Azm Palace: A fine example of 18th-century Ottoman architecture, originally built as a governor's residence.

Damascus remains a city of immense historical and cultural significance, reflecting a diverse and complex history that continues to influence its identity today.