Museums, Syrian Arab Republic

Imagine stepping back in time as you wander through the historic halls of the National Museum of Aleppo. Established in 1931, this treasure trove of art and archaeology has its roots in a collection that began in 1928. Originally focused on artifacts from the dawn of civilization up to the pre-Greco-Roman era, the museum's early finds were predominantly from Tell Halaf. By the late 1960s, the collection had outgrown its Ottoman-era home, prompting the creation of a new, modern museum building. This new space was completed and opened to the public in 1972, and it continues to captivate visitors with its diverse exhibits. The Pre-historic Art wing showcases fascinating relics like ancient bones and pottery from Syria and the Euphrates Valley. Some of these items date back a staggering million years, offering a glimpse into a time long before written history emerged around 3,200 BC. It's a humbling experience to stand in the presence of objects that predate human civilization as we know it. Moving into the Arab Islamic Art section, you'll find displays organized by function and medium, featuring pottery, ceramics, metalwork, and glass from various Islamic dynasties. The collection includes stunning gold and silver coins from the Umayyad, Abbasid, Ayyubid, and Mamluk periods. A particular highlight is a stone cenotaph adorned with exquisite floriated kufic calligraphy. Don't miss the side chamber, where medieval military equipment and an intricately designed Ottoman wooden ceiling are on display. For those with a passion for contemporary creations, the Modern Art wing offers a rich selection of paintings by Syrian artists, especially those from Aleppo. Explore a variety of styles, from realism to cubism and expressionism, reflecting the vibrant artistic spirit of the region. If you ever find yourself in Aleppo, this museum is a must-visit destination. It's not just a place to see art and artifacts; it's a journey through time, offering insights into the rich cultural heritage of Syria. So, take your time, soak it all in, and let history speak to you through these incredible pieces.

Imagine stepping back in time as you wander through Aleppo, one of the oldest cities still bustling with life today. It's like flipping through a history book where every page tells tales of more than four thousand years of Near Eastern history. The Citadel of Aleppo stands as a testament to this rich past, a compact world of its own where layers of history are stacked like a delicious mille-feuille. Most of the citadel's impressive structures were crafted by the Ayyubids during the twelfth and thirteenth centuries. Yet, you can also find significant remnants from the Ottoman era, starting from the sixteenth century. Perched on a natural limestone hill that rises about 100 feet (30 meters) above the surrounding plain, the citadel's towering walls, grand entry bridge, and majestic gateway still command the city's skyline. Within its boundaries, the inner structures have been weathered by invasions, earthquakes, and the relentless passage of time. However, recent archaeological digs have revealed something truly exciting: the remnants of a significant Bronze Age neo-Hittite temple. This ancient sanctuary, mainly active during the third and second millennia B.C., is adorned with intricate reliefs featuring deities and mythical creatures. These artistic treasures add a captivating chapter to Syria’s early history. For those who love a good story mixed with a bit of mystery, Aleppo's Citadel is a must-see. The blend of history and culture is palpable, offering insights into ancient civilizations that once thrived here. As you stroll through its ancient corridors, you're not just observing history; you're part of a timeless narrative.

Nestled right in the heart of Aleppo, the Great Mosque stands as a testament to the city's rich history. Built during the Omayyad period, this architectural marvel has witnessed centuries of change and restoration. Construction began just a decade after the famous Damascus Omayyad Mosque, making it one of the pioneering structures of early Islamic architecture. It's surrounded by a bustling commercial district filled with bazaars and madrasas, offering a vivid glimpse into the city's vibrant daily life. Interestingly, the mosque shares its neighborhood with remnants from pre-Islamic times, including an ancient Roman temple and a Byzantine church. These historical layers add a fascinating depth to the area, blending different eras seamlessly. Over the years, the mosque has been a canvas for numerous repairs and renovations. In 715, Omayyad Caliph Sulayman ibn Abd al-Malik initiated the construction of a Friday Mosque on what was then a cathedral site. Centuries later, in 926, Byzantine Emperor Nikephoros II attacked Aleppo. The damage was significant, but Seyfuddevle al-Hamadani restored the mosque in 965. When the Great Seljuks took control, Sultan Malik Shah launched a major restoration project, adding the iconic minaret that stands today. This minaret, with its square structure, is particularly striking. Its bands of Kufic inscriptions, stylized floral and Rumi motifs, and intricate stalactite designs are nothing short of mesmerizing. During Sultan Malik Shah's reign, his brother Tutus also contributed to the mosque's upkeep with repairs in 1090. For those captivated by history, Aleppo's Great Mosque isn't just a building; it's a journey through time. The mosque's surroundings offer a rich cultural tapestry, with the bustling sounds and scents of nearby bazaars providing a sensory experience. It's a place where the past and present coexist beautifully, inviting visitors to explore and reflect on the passage of time.