About Syria

Syria

Syria (officially: The Syrian Arab Republic) is an Arab country with a centralized republican system, consisting of 14 governorates, with Damascus as its capital. It is located in the Middle East, part of the Levant region in Western Asia. It shares borders with Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east, Jordan to the south, and Palestine (Israel), Lebanon, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west.

The country covers an area of approximately 185,180 square kilometers, characterized by diverse geography, ranging from Mediterranean to semi-arid climate zones, and rich vegetation and wildlife.

Syria is considered, along with Iraq, one of the cradles of human civilization. According to leading academic theories, the name "Syria" is derived from "Assyria." Historically, the term "Greater Syria" refers to the broader Levant region, also known as the Fertile Crescent, and differs in territory from the modern Syrian state.

Administrative and Cultural Divisions

Syria is divided into 14 governorates, each with its own unique cultural identity:

• Damascus – The Heart of Civilization: The Umayyad capital and the soul of the Levant, where history echoes through every alley and minaret.
• Rural Damascus – Nature and Heritage: From its lush Ghouta to serene mountains, it reflects rural authenticity and the legacy of its towns.
• Aleppo – Capital of Trade and Song: With its towering citadel and ancient markets, Aleppo boasts a rich legacy of craft and culture.
• Daraa – Gateway of the Revolution: The birthplace of the Syrian uprising, rooted in dignity and Arab pride.
• Quneitra – The Resilient Golan: A symbol of resistance against occupation, telling the story of defiance and struggle.
• As-Suwayda – Jabal Al-Arab: Home of the Druze, known for generosity, deep-rooted traditions, and cultural openness.
• Homs – The Fortress of Coexistence: City of palm trees and music, where diversity meets humor and warmth.
• Hama – Waterwheels of History: Where the ancient norias still turn, testifying to the creativity and harmony of its people.
• Tartous – Bride of the Coast: A blend of sea and history, offering warmth and hospitality in a peaceful setting.
• Latakia – Coastal Charm and Youthful Spirit: Famous for its coastal dialect, vibrant energy, and welcoming atmosphere.
• Idlib – Homeland of Folk Art: Land of olives and vast countryside, where traditional music, dress, and festivals thrive.
• Raqqa – The Abbasid Capital: A city on the Euphrates that once served as a capital of the Abbasid Caliphate, full of historical depth.
• Deir ez-Zor – Bridge of the Euphrates and Bedouin Heritage: From its river tales to tribal hospitality, it embodies the spirit of eastern Syria.
• Al-Hasakah – A Mosaic of Cultures: Home to Kurds, Arabs, Assyrians, and Armenians—an extraordinary example of Syrian multiculturalism.

History

Syria is among the oldest continuously inhabited regions in the world. It has been home to many ancient civilizations, including the Akkadians, Arameans, Phoenicians, Romans, Byzantines, and later the Islamic empires.

During the Islamic era, Damascus became the capital of the Umayyad Caliphate, turning into a major political and cultural center.

Syria later fell under Ottoman rule for centuries, and after World War I, came under French mandate. It gained independence on April 17, 1946, celebrated as Evacuation Day (Eid al-Jalaa).

The mid-20th century saw several military coups, until the Ba'ath Party eventually consolidated power.

In 2011, peaceful popular protests broke out across the country, calling for freedom, dignity, and reform. These were met with violent repression, leading to a full-scale conflict that caused hundreds of thousands of deaths and displaced millions inside and outside the country.

The war dragged on for years, turning Syria into an arena for regional and international conflict.

Finally, on December 8, 2025, Syria was declared liberated from the Assad regime by its own people, marking a new chapter in its long and painful history.