“The Oldest Continuously Inhabited City”
Damascus is often considered the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, serving as a living museum of Middle Eastern history. The Old City is enclosed by Roman-era walls and features the breathtaking Umayyad Mosque—one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world, built on the site of a former Jupiter temple and Christian basilica. Students of history and architecture will be captivated by the layering of Aramean, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic influences. The bustling Al-Hamidiyah Souq offers a sensory overload of spices, textiles, and traditional crafts. The best time to visit is during spring (March to May) or autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild. Tip: Modest dress is strictly required for entering religious sites, and taking a guided walking tour is highly recommended to uncover the hidden courtyards of traditional Damascene homes.