what are the main tourist attractions of Syria?

Syria is a country rich in heritage. As one of the oldest civilizations in the world, it houses one of the most amazing places to visit in the Middle East. . Tours are open and travelers are welcome back to what was once one of the most visited countries in the region. So what are the most important tourist attractions in Syria?

1-Umayyad Mosque

Also known as the Great Mosque of Damascus, the Umayyad is one of the oldest mosques in the world. It was built in the 7th Century after the muslim conquest of Damascus. Nowadays it is seen as a masterpiece of early Islamic architecture.

It is part of Damascus Old Town which is World Heritage Listed. 

2- Al-Hamidiyah Souq

The Al-Hamidiyah Souq is the largest and central souq in Syria. Located in the heart of Old Damascus it makes a perfect day of exploration along with the citadel and Umayyad Mosque. Leave all your last minute shopping for this place!

3- Palmyra

Probably the most famous of all tourist attractions of Syria, Palmyra was one of the greatest cities in the ancient world. Having existed for millennia, the city came into its own as a trading stop for caravans on the silk route. The tolls charged allowed for it to build the finest building projects in the world at the time. It reached it zenith as a Roman city state in the 3rd Century.

4- Krak des Chevaliers

Krak des Chevaliers is an imposing former crusaders castle. Located not far from the city of Homs, the Krak was constructed in the 11th century. It is widely regarded as one of the most important preserved medieval castles in the world. Its location is important as during the first crusade the castle overlooked a valley that was the sole route from the city of Antioch to Beirut and the Mediterranean.

Krak des Chevaliers is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

5- Al Azem Palace

The Azem is a 17th Century Palace built as a residence for As’ad Pasha al-Azm, the governor of Damascus. During the French occupation of Syria and Lebanon it became the headquarters of the French Institute.

It is now home to the Syrian museum of Arts & Traditions. A welcome reprieve from The hustle and bustle of Damascus and a perfect place to enjoy some tea.