Syria is currently the center of the world's biggest ongoing conflict of five years. But before the uprising of 2011 that led to its civil war, Syria was a hub of culture showcasing the beauty of its blacksmith heritage during the Ottoman Empire era, amazing mosques, old Ottoman ruins and exotic Khan architecture.
According to Huffington Post, Syria has forsaken us the Khan As'ad Pasha in Damascus. Located in the "old city" of Damascus dating back in the 17 century, As'ad Pasha who ruled Syria as governor for the Ottoman Empire highlighted the beautiful architecture of the country during the time. The site had been preserved before -- and is currently abandoned during the ongoing conflict.
The news website also said the Damascene Sword Monument in Damascus showcases the beauty and sturdiness of "Damascus Steel" -- a well-known essential sword development element of its traditional blacksmiths. The Damascene Sword Monument is a memorial of the strength and achievements of the Syrian people. Recently, it was under threat of mortar fire from warring factions.
According to Lonely Planet, the Umayyad Mosque is one of the most beautiful. It said Muslims practicing their faith worldwide consider the mosque as "the holiest in the world." During the rule of the Umayyad's, Damascus became the Islamic capital of the world before Saudi Arabia. Unfortunately, it was destroyed during the clashes between Syrian regime and rebel forces.
The Islamic State militant group once occupied the great ruin city of Palmyra. Presently, it is the center of crossfire between government and Arabian forces and is likely damaged from the crossfire. Before the conflict, the Palmyra ruins told the story of Palmyrene Pantheons -- the local mythology -- and its dedication to the god Bel who had his own temple along with the rest of traditional pre-Ottoman culture of Syria.
This article is copyrighted by Travelers Today, the travel news leader
