Syria flag

Syria

History

Faisal was crowned king, but France took the country within months.
State of Syria under French mandate placed the territory under outside administration before modern independence.
A republican constitution was granted under the French mandate.
End of the French mandate placed the territory under outside administration before modern independence.
Syria merged with Egypt in the United Arab Republic.
A Ba'athist coup began the party rule that followed.
Syrian transitional government was established, giving Syria a new political framework.
Asia thumbnailPart ofAsiaMore countries, cities and routes.
CapitalDamascus
Population25.6M
Area185,180 km2
CurrencySyrian pound

Short facts

RegionWestern Asia / Middle East / Levant
LanguageArabic
Time zoneEET (UTC+2)
Drives onRight

Worth seeing

  • Palmyra (Tadmor): Ancient caravan oasis city and magnificent Roman ruins in the Syrian desert.
  • Damascus Old City: UNESCO-listed one of the world's oldest capitals, with the Umayyad Mosque and grand souqs.
  • Krak des Chevaliers: One of the world's best-preserved Crusader castles, a UNESCO masterpiece.

Find a city in Syria

Showing all cities

Damascus thumbnailDamascusCity

Planning questions

What is Syria known for?Palmyra (Tadmor), Damascus Old City, Krak des Chevaliers.
What is the capital?Damascus.
Which language is useful?Arabic.
When is the national day?17 April.
How should I browse it here?Start with the facts, jump to linked cities, then check events and topics.

Upcoming events

Use Damascus as the first planning anchor for Syria, then compare the city, food and worth-seeing notes on this page.

Food & drink

Kebab thumbnailKebabSignature dishTea thumbnailTeaLocal drink

Known for

Palmyra (Tadmor)Damascus Old CityKrak des ChevaliersDamascusKebabTea
Eurovision Song Contest thumbnailMusic & CultureFestivals, concerts and cultural calendars.Asia thumbnailAsia outdoorsLandscapes, routes, seasons and protected nature.