{"id":75066,"date":"2025-12-08T17:32:56","date_gmt":"2025-12-08T16:32:56","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/"},"modified":"2025-12-08T17:32:56","modified_gmt":"2025-12-08T16:32:56","slug":"damascus","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/","title":{"rendered":"Damascus essential travel guide: 12 practical tips and key sights"},"content":{"rendered":"<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Damascus_an_essential_guide_to_the_worlds_storied_city\"><\/span>Damascus: an essential guide to the world\u2019s storied city<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Damascus is one of the most evocative place names in the world, a city woven through history, faith, craft and cuisine. Whether you picture the spice-laden alleys of the Old City, the great Umayyad Mosque, the scent of orange blossom in hidden courtyards, or the legendary patterned metal known as Damascus steel, this city has long captured imaginations. In this guide, we introduce Damascus in clear, practical terms: what it is, why it matters, how it grew, and how its culture and heritage continue to resonate far beyond Syria.<\/p>\n<p>This article focuses mainly on the city of Damascus\u2014its setting, people and legacy\u2014while also explaining the famous steel and textiles associated with the name. Along the way you will find context, examples, tips, and a brief FAQ to clarify common questions about Damascus.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Damascus_and_why_does_it_matter\"><\/span>What is Damascus and why does it matter?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Damascus is the capital of Syria and historically one of the most important cities of the Middle East. Situated in the southwest of the country, Damascus lies on a plateau about 680 metres above sea level, on the edge of the fertile Ghouta oasis fed by the Barada River. This geography allowed Damascus to flourish as a caravan hub between Arabia, Mesopotamia and the Mediterranean coast, shaping its role as a centre of trade, learning and religious life.<\/p>\n<p>Often described as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on earth, Damascus has been home to Arameans, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, Umayyads, Mamluks, Ottomans and many others. The Old City of Damascus is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its layers of architecture and urban planning reveal how civilisations met and mingled here. Modern Damascus, meanwhile, remains a cultural and administrative heart of Syria, known for its universities, artisanal workshops, and refined urban traditions.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Damascus_in_context_location_climate_and_urban_fabric\"><\/span>Damascus in context: location, climate and urban fabric<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Geographically, Damascus sits close to the Anti-Lebanon mountains to the west, with desert stretching eastwards. The Barada and its canals once fed orchards and gardens that ringed the city; these green belts helped cool summers and supplied fresh produce. Today, while modern urban growth has transformed the area, traces of the oasis still characterise parts of Damascus\u2019s outskirts.<\/p>\n<p>The climate is Mediterranean\u2013semi-arid: hot, dry summers and mild, wetter winters. Older houses in Damascus met this climate with clever design. Traditional courtyard homes\u2014often unseen from the street\u2014use thick walls, inner gardens and water features to create cool, private spaces. These \u201cdamascene\u201d homes are among the city\u2019s most admired architectural contributions.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"A_brief_history_of_Damascus\"><\/span>A brief history of Damascus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Damascus has a long timeline; here is a condensed version to orient you:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Ancient origins: The name likely derives from ancient Semitic roots. By the first millennium BCE, Damascus was an Aramean city-state with its own kings and strong regional ties.<\/li>\n<li>Classical antiquity: Damascus came under Hellenistic and later Roman rule. Roman planners laid out the Cardo (main north\u2013south street) and Decumanus. The great city gate on Straight Street and remnants of colonnades recall this era.<\/li>\n<li>Late antique and early Islamic periods: After the Byzantine period, Damascus became the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate (661\u2013750 CE). This was a golden age in which the Umayyad Mosque was built and the city gained global prominence.<\/li>\n<li>Medieval centuries: Power shifted to Abbasid, then Mamluk and later Ottoman rule. Damascus remained a crucial stop on pilgrimage routes, particularly for caravans heading to Mecca. Craft production, including fine textiles and metalwork, flourished.<\/li>\n<li>Modern era: In the 19th and 20th centuries, Damascus saw modernisation, new neighbourhoods and political change. Despite conflict in recent decades, Damascus retains much of its historic fabric and cultural standing.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>For additional historical detail on the city\u2019s rise and transformations over time, the <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/place\/Damascus\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Encyclopaedia Britannica article on Damascus<\/a> offers a reliable overview, while the UNESCO listing for the <a href=\"https:\/\/whc.unesco.org\/en\/list\/20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Ancient City of Damascus<\/a> explains why its urban core is considered globally significant.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Landmarks_and_neighbourhoods_of_Damascus\"><\/span>Landmarks and neighbourhoods of Damascus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Damascus rewards unhurried exploration. Start with the Old City\u2014within the now-fragmented walls\u2014which preserves the dense urban pattern of markets, mosques, churches and caravanserais (khans). Key highlights include:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Umayyad Mosque: One of Islam\u2019s most revered sites, famed for its large courtyard, elegant mosaics and layered history on a spot sacred since ancient times.<\/li>\n<li>Azem Palace: A fine example of an 18th-century Damascene mansion, with its contrasting black-and-white stonework and generous courtyards.<\/li>\n<li>Straight Street (Via Recta): Evokes Roman planning and biblical narratives; the street has long threaded commerce and community through the Old City.<\/li>\n<li>Souqs (bazaars): Souq al-Hamidiyyeh and surrounding markets showcase the commercial spirit of Damascus\u2014textiles, sweets, spices, brassware and more.<\/li>\n<li>Christian Quarter and Jewish Quarter (historical): Churches and synagogues point to Damascus\u2019s multi-faith past and present; architecture here reveals different communal traditions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Beyond the Old City, Damascus developed districts with wider streets and European-influenced architecture from the late 19th century onward. You\u2019ll find schools, theatres, cafes and modern apartment blocks interspersed with older villas. This mix gives Damascus its distinctive rhythm: ancient lanes met by leafy boulevards; stone walls and new concrete; the call to prayer alongside the chime of church bells.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Faith_culture_and_everyday_life_in_Damascus\"><\/span>Faith, culture and everyday life in Damascus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Damascus has been a crossroads of faiths for millennia. Muslim, Christian and Jewish communities have all shaped its religious landscape. Pilgrims and scholars travelled to and from Damascus, leaving a legacy of learning and devotion. Today, religious buildings remain some of the city\u2019s most striking monuments, and festivals punctuate the calendar with colour and music.<\/p>\n<p>The city\u2019s social life traditionally centres on family, hospitality and neighbourhood ties. In a typical Damascene home, guests might be welcomed with coffee, seasonal fruit, or a tray of pistachio-studded sweets. Courtyards often host gatherings amid jasmine vines and citrus trees. The soundscape of Damascus\u2014vendors\u2019 calls, the murmur of fountains, the rhythm of traders in the souq\u2014has long marked its identity.<\/p>\n<p>For readers curious about Christian traditions across the region, including differences between Eastern and Western churches that can be seen in cities like Damascus, this comparison of <a href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/orthodox-vs-catholic\/\">Orthodox vs Catholic<\/a> perspectives provides helpful background.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Craft_cuisine_and_the_senses_of_Damascus\"><\/span>Craft, cuisine and the senses of Damascus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Artisanship is central to Damascus\u2019s reputation. The city has given its name to \u201cdamascening\u201d: inlaying gold or silver into steel or brass to create delicate patterns. Woodworkers craft marquetry boxes with mother-of-pearl; weavers produce richly patterned textiles; perfumers make rose and orange blossom waters; confectioners turn out nougat (rahat lokum), baklava and pistachio sweets. These crafts are not mere souvenirs\u2014many are household staples and markers of Damascene identity.<\/p>\n<p>Cuisine in Damascus draws from Levantine traditions: grilled meats, mezze spreads, herb-laden salads, stuffed vegetables and aromatic rice dishes. Expect fresh mint, parsley, sumac, sesame, pomegranate molasses and yoghurt to play starring roles. Signature treats include ma\u2019amoul (date or nut-filled pastries) and halawet el-jibn (cheese and semolina rolls filled with cream). Street food\u2014falafel, shawarma, fatayer pastries\u2014sits alongside elegant home cooking.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Damascus_steel_and_damask_textiles_clearing_up_the_terms\"><\/span>Damascus steel and damask textiles: clearing up the terms<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Because the name Damascus appears in several craft contexts, it\u2019s worth clarifying the two most famous associations:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Damascus steel: Historically, a patterned steel known for its wavy, watery designs and valued blades. The term has been used for centuries, but modern metallurgists distinguish between the original crucible steels (often linked to wootz steel from South Asia) and contemporary pattern-welded steels that imitate the look. For a concise introduction, see <a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/technology\/Damascus-steel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Britannica\u2019s overview of Damascus steel<\/a>.<\/li>\n<li>Damask textiles: A weaving technique creating reversible figured patterns, traditionally in silk, later in linen, wool or cotton. While the method is much older and broader than one city, the textile\u2019s name reflects historical trade through Damascus.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>In both cases, Damascus served as a trading and cultural node where techniques, materials and designs met and spread. Even today, the words \u201cDamascus\u201d and \u201cdamask\u201d evoke luxury, pattern and craftsmanship.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Learning_and_ideas_Damascus_as_a_centre_of_knowledge\"><\/span>Learning and ideas: Damascus as a centre of knowledge<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Over the centuries, Damascus has hosted scholars of theology, law, philosophy and science. Madrasas (colleges), libraries and private salons flourished under different dynasties. Commentary traditions, poetry and calligraphy thrived. The presence of multiple communities encouraged translation and exchange: texts moved in and out of Damascus, enriching a network of knowledge stretching from Andalusia to Persia.<\/p>\n<p>For readers interested in how early Christian thinkers described non-Jewish communities, a useful primer on the language of the era is this explanation of the <a href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/gentiles-meaning\/\">meaning of Gentiles<\/a>, a term that also surfaces in stories linked with Damascus.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Damascus_in_literature_art_and_memory\"><\/span>Damascus in literature, art and memory<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><\/p>\n<div id='video-container' data-video-id='o2T7QFqj6ho' style='width:100%; height:auto; max-width:587px; position: relative;'>\n<div class='image-video-plugin' style='background:url(\"https:\/\/img.youtube.com\/vi\/o2T7QFqj6ho\/0.jpg\") center no-repeat; background-size: cover;'><\/div>\n<p>        <span class='youtube-play-button'><\/span><br \/>\n        <noscript><a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=o2T7QFqj6ho\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"><\/a><\/noscript>\n    <\/div>\n<p><\/p>\n<p>Writers have praised the gardens and courtyards of Damascus for centuries. Poets likened its waters to silver threads and its scent to paradise. In travelogues and memoirs, Damascus often appears as a city of thresholds\u2014between desert and mountain, north and south, sea and inland trade. Artists and photographers have dwelt on its muqarnas vaults, inlaid furniture and shadow-streaked alleys.<\/p>\n<p>Art collections around the world house works from Damascus, including decorative arts and architectural interiors. For example, the \u201cDamascus Room\u201d preserved in some museums offers a window into the aesthetic of an 18th- or 19th-century reception room, with painted panels, calligraphy and floral motifs that recall the city\u2019s love of pattern.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Damascus_today_people_economy_and_challenges\"><\/span>Damascus today: people, economy and challenges<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>As Syria\u2019s capital, Damascus remains an administrative and cultural centre, home to universities, hospitals, theatres and media. Traditional sectors\u2014food processing, textiles, crafts\u2014sit alongside services and public administration. Markets still pulse with everyday trade, though the pace and product mix have changed with modern life and the country\u2019s wider circumstances.<\/p>\n<p>Like many historic cities, Damascus balances preservation with development. Maintaining the Old City\u2019s houses and lanes\u2014keeping them lived-in rather than hollowed out by purely commercial use\u2014is a persistent concern. Urban planners and local communities have worked, within constraints, to safeguard heritage while ensuring homes remain practical for contemporary families.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Experiencing_Damascus_respectfully\"><\/span>Experiencing Damascus respectfully<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>If you have the opportunity to visit when conditions allow, a few principles help you appreciate Damascus with care:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Learn the basics: A little Arabic and cultural context go a long way. Respect for religious sites and local customs is essential.<\/li>\n<li>Support local artisans: Seek out family-run workshops and fair, transparent pricing. Buying directly helps sustain Damascus\u2019s crafts.<\/li>\n<li>Dress and behaviour: Modest dress is appreciated in many parts of the city; ask before photographing people, especially in private or sacred spaces.<\/li>\n<li>Eat seasonally: Discover how Damascus cuisine celebrates seasonal produce\u2014what you find in spring differs from autumn.<\/li>\n<li>Take your time: The Old City reveals itself best on foot, at a humane pace, with pauses for tea in courtyard cafes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>When planning travel, consult current guidance and consider the welfare of local communities first. City conditions can change, and responsible choices matter.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Common_misconceptions_and_easy_mistakes_about_Damascus\"><\/span>Common misconceptions and easy mistakes about Damascus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li>\u201cDamascus is only about the past.\u201d While its history is unmatched, Damascus is also a living city with schools, workplaces, art scenes and daily routines.<\/li>\n<li>\u201cDamascus steel is a single ancient formula.\u201d The name covers different metallurgical traditions and modern pattern-welding; the look is iconic, but the exact historical processes were varied and regionally connected.<\/li>\n<li>\u201cAll historic houses are museums.\u201d Many Damascene homes are still private residences. Some have become guesthouses or cultural centres; always check access and behave respectfully.<\/li>\n<li>\u201cOld City equals unsafe after dark.\u201d Like any city, experiences vary by time and place. The Old City can be atmospheric in the evening, but use local advice and common sense.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Recommended_external_resources\"><\/span>Recommended external resources<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/whc.unesco.org\/en\/list\/20\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">UNESCO listing: Ancient City of Damascus<\/a> \u2013 official description of the Old City\u2019s universal value.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/place\/Damascus\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Encyclopaedia Britannica: Damascus<\/a> \u2013 concise history, geography and culture.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Damascus\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Wikipedia: Damascus<\/a> \u2013 broad, regularly updated overview with references.<\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.britannica.com\/technology\/Damascus-steel\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Encyclopaedia Britannica: Damascus steel<\/a> \u2013 background on the craft behind the famous pattern.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Related_articles\"><\/span>Related articles<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/orthodox-vs-catholic\/\">Key differences between Orthodox and Catholic traditions<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/gentiles-meaning\/\">Clear explanation of the term \u201cGentiles\u201d<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Frequently_asked_questions_about_Damascus\"><\/span>Frequently asked questions about Damascus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_Damascus_really_the_oldest_continuously_inhabited_city_in_the_world\"><\/span>Is Damascus really the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Damascus is often cited as one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities. Archaeological and textual evidence shows settlement in and around the site for millennia. While other cities\u2014such as Aleppo or Jericho\u2014also claim similar antiquity, Damascus stands among a small group with exceptionally long, uninterrupted urban histories.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_makes_the_Umayyad_Mosque_in_Damascus_so_important\"><\/span>What makes the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus so important?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The Umayyad Mosque is one of the grand monuments of early Islamic architecture, built in the early 8th century on a site of longstanding religious significance. Its scale, mosaics and layout influenced later mosques across the Islamic world. It remains a living place of worship and a symbol of Damascus\u2019s central role in regional history.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_exactly_is_Damascus_steel\"><\/span>What exactly is Damascus steel?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Historically, the term referred to high-quality, patterned steels cherished for blades. The flowing, wave-like designs are unforgettable. Modern use of \u201cDamascus steel\u201d often describes pattern-welded steels that mimic the appearance of older crucible steels. It\u2019s an umbrella term rather than a single formula, and its association with Damascus reflects the city\u2019s role in trade and craftsmanship.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Is_%E2%80%9Cdamask%E2%80%9D_fabric_related_to_the_city_of_Damascus\"><\/span>Is \u201cdamask\u201d fabric related to the city of Damascus?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Yes\u2014linguistically. \u201cDamask\u201d refers to a reversible patterned weaving technique, and the term became associated with fabrics traded through or produced in cities like Damascus. Over time, \u201cdamask\u201d came to mean the patterning method itself, regardless of where the cloth is made.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_foods_should_I_try_in_Damascus\"><\/span>What foods should I try in Damascus?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Look for mezze such as hummus, tabbouleh and muhammara; grilled meats like shish taouk and kebabs; stuffed aubergine or vine leaves; and sweets like baklava, ma\u2019amoul and halawet el-jibn. Seasonal fruit, rosewater sherbets and strong coffee are part of the Damascene table.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"When_is_the_best_time_of_year_to_explore_Damascus\"><\/span>When is the best time of year to explore Damascus?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Spring and autumn are typically the most comfortable seasons, with milder temperatures and a festive atmosphere in markets. Summer can be hot and dry; winter is cooler and can be rainy. Always check current conditions and local advice before planning.<\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Conclusion_on_Damascus\"><\/span>Conclusion on Damascus<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>From the oasis-fed lanes of its Old City to the scholarly and artistic currents that coursed through empires, Damascus stands as a touchstone of urban civilisation. Its name calls to mind faith and learning, patterned steel and textiles, shaded courtyards and lively bazaars. The historic centre\u2014recognised by UNESCO\u2014attests to how Damascus nurtured exchange between cultures, crafts and ideas.<\/p>\n<p>At the same time, Damascus is not a museum piece. It is a living city whose people continue to cook, trade, study and celebrate in ways shaped by place and community. Understanding Damascus means appreciating its layers: Aramean roots, Roman planning, Umayyad grandeur, Ottoman craft, and modern life with all its challenges.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you approach the city through architecture, food, literature or the story of Damascus steel, you will find a coherent theme: ingenuity meeting hospitality. If you carry one idea away, let it be this: Damascus matters because it shows how cities can connect worlds\u2014past and present, sacred and everyday\u2014through careful craft and shared spaces.<\/p>\n<p>For anyone curious about the Middle East, learning about Damascus is a rich starting point. Its history offers perspective, its culture offers delight, and its resilience offers hope that treasured urban traditions can be sustained for generations to come.<\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_86 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title ez-toc-toggle\" style=\"cursor:pointer\">Table of Contents<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Alternar tabla de contenidos\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 eztoc-toggle-hide-by-default' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Damascus_an_essential_guide_to_the_worlds_storied_city\" >Damascus: an essential guide to the world\u2019s storied city<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#What_is_Damascus_and_why_does_it_matter\" >What is Damascus and why does it matter?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Damascus_in_context_location_climate_and_urban_fabric\" >Damascus in context: location, climate and urban fabric<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#A_brief_history_of_Damascus\" >A brief history of Damascus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Landmarks_and_neighbourhoods_of_Damascus\" >Landmarks and neighbourhoods of Damascus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Faith_culture_and_everyday_life_in_Damascus\" >Faith, culture and everyday life in Damascus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Craft_cuisine_and_the_senses_of_Damascus\" >Craft, cuisine and the senses of Damascus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Damascus_steel_and_damask_textiles_clearing_up_the_terms\" >Damascus steel and damask textiles: clearing up the terms<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Learning_and_ideas_Damascus_as_a_centre_of_knowledge\" >Learning and ideas: Damascus as a centre of knowledge<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Damascus_in_literature_art_and_memory\" >Damascus in literature, art and memory<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Damascus_today_people_economy_and_challenges\" >Damascus today: people, economy and challenges<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Experiencing_Damascus_respectfully\" >Experiencing Damascus respectfully<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Common_misconceptions_and_easy_mistakes_about_Damascus\" >Common misconceptions and easy mistakes about Damascus<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Recommended_external_resources\" >Recommended external resources<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Related_articles\" >Related articles<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Frequently_asked_questions_about_Damascus\" >Frequently asked questions about Damascus<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Is_Damascus_really_the_oldest_continuously_inhabited_city_in_the_world\" >Is Damascus really the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#What_makes_the_Umayyad_Mosque_in_Damascus_so_important\" >What makes the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus so important?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#What_exactly_is_Damascus_steel\" >What exactly is Damascus steel?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Is_%E2%80%9Cdamask%E2%80%9D_fabric_related_to_the_city_of_Damascus\" >Is \u201cdamask\u201d fabric related to the city of Damascus?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#What_foods_should_I_try_in_Damascus\" >What foods should I try in Damascus?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-22\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#When_is_the_best_time_of_year_to_explore_Damascus\" >When is the best time of year to explore Damascus?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-23\" href=\"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/damascus\/#Conclusion_on_Damascus\" >Conclusion on Damascus<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Damascus: an essential guide to the world\u2019s storied city Damascus is one of the most evocative place names in the world, a city woven through history, faith, craft and cuisine. Whether you picture the spice-laden alleys of the Old City, the great Umayyad Mosque, the scent of orange blossom in hidden courtyards, or the legendary &hellip;<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":75067,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-75066","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-chiristian"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/75066","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=75066"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/75066\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/75067"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=75066"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=75066"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/oracioncristiana.org\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=75066"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}