Best things to do in Damascus
Find out more about those top places in Damascus
Damascus: The "City of Jasmine" - A Peek into One of the World's Oldest Cities
When it comes to ancient cities, Damascus needs no introduction. Not only is it one of the oldest cities in the world, but it also carries a rich history that dates back to the beginning of civilization itself. Known as the “City of Jasmine” (because, let’s face it, who doesn’t love a good floral nickname?), Damascus has earned a special place in the hearts of history buffs and adventurers alike. Located on the eastern foothills of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range, it’s currently the most populous city in Syria—although the crowds you’ll find today are a bit quieter than in past centuries due to the ongoing unrest.
While Damascus is packed with places to visit, top attractions, and fascinating sightseeing opportunities for those with a keen interest in ancient cities, there’s an important disclaimer: right now, due to the ongoing conflict in the region, Damascus is considered a dangerous destination for travelers. So, before you pack your bags to explore this historical gem, it’s essential to stay informed about the local situation.
A Glimpse at the Fascinating History of Damascus
If history is your jam, Damascus is an absolute goldmine. This city has been the crossroads of civilizations for over 4,000 years—yes, you read that right. From the Romans and Byzantines to the Ottomans, each civilization has left its mark, making this one of the most historically rich places to visit in the world.
The ancient Umayyad Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture, is one of the top attractions in the city, with its stunning mosaics and historical significance. Just imagine walking through those centuries-old gates and standing in the footsteps of scholars, rulers, and countless travelers. It’s like stepping into a living history book—except, you know, much cooler!
Things to Do in Damascus (If You’re There and It’s Safe!)
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Wander Through the Old City: The Old City of Damascus is like a maze of cobblestone streets and ancient buildings that have stood the test of time. Picture this: You’re walking through lanes that were once trodden by merchants and poets. It’s a place where history is still alive and very much in your face. Grab a traditional Damascene artisan craft or a jar of jasmine perfume to take home as a souvenir.
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Explore the Souks: Want to experience a sensory overload? The souks (markets) in Damascus are a must-see. From spices that’ll make your taste buds do a happy dance to fabrics that are so colorful, they could give a rainbow a run for its money, you’ll find plenty of things to do here. Don’t forget to haggle—it’s part of the fun!
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Visit the National Museum of Damascus: If you’re fascinated by artifacts and ancient relics, the National Museum is your go-to. From the days of the Romans to the Ottomans, you’ll get a peek at Syria’s history through incredible artifacts, sculptures, and even some famous mosaics. It’s like a time-traveling experience, minus the whole “DeLorean” thing.
Damascus and Its Hidden Gems
Damascus isn’t just about the big-ticket attractions—there are hidden gems scattered throughout the city that offer a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle. Take a stroll through the Damascus Gardens, enjoy the serenity of the Barada River, or check out the Azm Palace, where you’ll find an impressive blend of Ottoman architecture and interior design that’ll make your Instagram followers wish they were there.
So, Is Damascus Safe to Visit?
Here’s the deal: Damascus is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating cities on the planet, but it’s also one of the most dangerous to visit at the moment due to the ongoing conflict in Syria. While it offers an abundance of things to do for those who want to immerse themselves in ancient history, the safety of traveling there is something that requires serious consideration.
As travelers, we can’t stress enough how important it is to stay updated on the latest travel advisories and local conditions. If you’re planning to visit in the future, make sure to check for travel advisories and seek local guidance to ensure your safety.
Final Thoughts: A City of Jasmine Waiting for Peace
In summary, Damascus is a city full of history, culture, and beauty—if only it were safe for travelers to explore right now. For sightseeing lovers and history buffs, it’s one of those cities that’s a must-visit if the situation ever improves. Until then, keep this ancient wonder on your travel radar and make sure to dream of the day when this city of jasmine can once again welcome travelers with open arms.
For now, let’s hope for peace and safe travels for everyone who dreams of walking the ancient streets of this incredible city.
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The Umayyad Mosque
Hard to find a Mosque as majestic as the Umayyad Mosque in the middle east – recognized as one of the largest and oldest places of worship in the world, it is very revered by the citizens of Syria. Built on the site of a former Christian Basilica, the mosque has a rectangular shape spanning 97 meters by 156 meters. It is also the location for the mausoleum which holds the tombs of Ayyubid Sultan Sladin and believe to be the arrival point of Jesus at the End of Days.
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Al-Hamidiyah Souq
Perhaps the most popular place in all of Syria, the Al-Hamidiyah Souq built along the axis of the original Roman street that led to Jupiter’s Temple, it dates back to the Ottoman Empire. It is the largest Souq in Syria at 500-meters-long, starting at the Al-Thawra street and ending at the Umayyad Mosque Plaza. It has several shops and stalls, including grocery shops, ice cream parlors, cafes and food stalls.
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Al-Azem Palace
The Al-Azem Palace is another beautiful display of Damascus’s architectural brilliance. Dating back to the Ottoman Era, the Palace was built in 1749 to serve as a private residence for Asád Pasha Al-Azem the governor of Damascus. Consisting of several buildings, it is divided into 3 wings namely the Harem, the Selamlek and the Khademlek – the harem was used by the Governor’s family, while the Selamlek and Khademlek were used for guest and other official purposes. Later acquired by the Syrian Government, it was renovated to house the Museum of Arts and Popular Traditions.
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Damascus Citadel
Being one of the top cities in ancient times, Damascus needed protecting – the Damascus Citadel is one of many fortifications put in place to defend the city against invaders, most especially the Crusaders who were repelled several times thanks to the fortress. It is located at the north-western corner of the old city and dates back to late 12th century during the reign of Salah Eddine. It is also a recognized UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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October War Panorama
Built to commemorate the October War between Egypt and Syria against Israel, the museum offers knowledge of the war from a Syria’s perspective. Inaugurated by President Hafez al-Assad in 1998, the museum exhibitions include war artifacts such as jets, tanks and guns. The most significant attraction remains its 3D panorama, where visitors sit on a rotating platform while viewing depictions of the battles in a 3D format making it more realistic.