Aleppo: City of History and Spirituality in the Heart of Syria

Aleppo City is one of the largest governorates in the Syrian Arab Republic and the second-largest city after the capital Damascus in terms of population. It serves as the country's commercial and economic hub and is located in northwestern Syria near the Turkish border, approximately 355 km away from Damascus.

Aleppo is one of the oldest and most historic cities in the world, with references dating back to Egyptian manuscripts from the 20th century BCE.

The city of Aleppo is renowned for its delicious cuisine, with the Aleppo cuisine being among the most famous around the world. The city is also known for its rich and ancient industries, including textile production, cotton gins, laurel soap manufacturing, olive oil production, and food industries. Additionally, Aleppo is famous for its traditional musical groups that sing religious hymns and songs. Its residents have a strong passion for music and singing, making it a cornerstone of authentic Arab music. Some people even refer to Aleppo as the city of art and culture due to the multitude of poets, writers, and doctors that have emerged from the city.

History of Aleppo and its Name Origins

The accounts of Aleppo's history vary, but it is undoubtedly one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world. Some sources suggest that its history dates back nearly 10,000 years BCE, while other studies indicate a history spanning tens of thousands of years BCE. The earliest known mention of Aleppo by name was around 1800 BCE, while it was also known as "Arman" and "Halya." Assyrian writings referred to it as "Khalaaba and Khalluwan," and it has had various other names throughout its extensive history. The city was known as Aleppo during the Babylonian civilization, where it flourished and became one of the region's most powerful kingdoms. It was later destroyed by the Hittites under the leadership of Mursili I in the 16th century BCE, only to regain its prominence in the aftermath of internal disputes within the Hittite empire.

After the collapse of the Hittites around the 12th century BCE, Aleppo became part of the Kingdom of Tal Rifaat, one of the Aramaean kingdoms. By the end of the 9th century BCE, the city became a part of the Second Assyrian Empire. It later fell under the control of the Second Babylonian Kingdom, followed by the Persian Empire, and then several other kingdoms and empires.

The Islamic era marked a pivotal point in the city's history. Muslim armies, led by Khalid ibn al-Walid, entered Aleppo in 637 CE after the Byzantine rule fell. The city became part of the Islamic state, and during their rule, Arabic was spread throughout the city. Aleppo prospered greatly during this time. It remained under Islamic rule until the 10th century CE when it came under the control of the Byzantines and later the Crusaders.

The Ottoman Empire took control of Aleppo in 1516 CE, bringing about a period of literary and architectural resurgence despite economic challenges. The city remained under Ottoman rule until 1918 CE.

Following French mandate rule over Syria, the country was divided into six states, including the Aleppo State. The division aimed to suppress the Syrians' resistance to the French after the Battle of Maysalun. In 1925, the Great Syrian Revolt, led by Sultan Pasha al-Atrash, spread to several Syrian cities. In response, France urged pro-French members of the Aleppo Parliament to declare independence from Damascus. Nationalists, led by Ibrahim Hanano, rose against the decision, leading to protests and strikes. The nationalists successfully thwarted the declaration of independence. In 1936, the Independence Treaty was signed with France, and Aleppo regained its independence as part of Syria.

Aleppo's Climate

Aleppo features a semi-continental climate, with average temperatures ranging from 18-20 degrees Celsius. The city receives an average annual rainfall of around 385 mm, with 80% of it occurring between October and March.

Key Tourist Attractions in Aleppo

• The Great Mosque of Aleppo

Construction of the Great Mosque began in the 8th century CE during the reign of Walid ibn Abd al-Malik in the year 715 CE... Read More