Weird & Unusual Attractions in Damascus, Dimashq, Syria

All Topics about Damascus All Cities in Syria

1. Umayyad Mosque's Tomb of John the Baptist

Visit the tomb believed to be that of John the Baptist within the historic Umayyad Mosque.

Religious Significance: A site revered by multiple religions, offering a unique blend of cultures.
Architectural Marvel: A stunning example of Umayyad architecture and one of the largest mosques in Syria.
Historical Importance: Holds a significant place in Islamic, Christian and Jewish history.

Explore this historic street, once a major center for silk trade and now filled with spice shops and antique stores.

Authentic Marketplace: Experience the traditional Arab market environment.
Culinary Delights: Taste local Syrian dishes and spices while shopping for souvenirs.
Historical Significance: Dates back to the early Islamic period, offering a glimpse into the city's history.

Listen to the unique melodies of barrel organ musicians in Old Damascus.

Cultural Entertainment: Enjoy a traditional music experience that is rarely found elsewhere.
Local Artists: Support local artists by giving them a few Syrian pounds for their performances.
Unique Soundscapes: Experience the cacophony of various barrel organ melodies intertwining in the streets.

Visit this ancient gate that dates back to the Umayyad period and is a testament to Damascus's rich history.

Architectural Beauty: Marvel at the intricate Islamic carvings adorning the gate.
Historic Significance: An important part of Damascus's fortification system during medieval times.
Scenic Location: Offers a great viewpoint over the city and its ancient walls.

Explore this medieval palace that houses a museum showcasing various artifacts from Damascus's history.

Historical Artifacts: Discover numerous items dating back to the Umayyad, Mamluk and Ottoman eras.
Architectural Beauty: A beautiful example of Ayyubid architecture in Syria.
Cultural Education: Learn about the history and culture of Damascus through its artifacts and exhibits.

Discover the evolution of timekeeping devices at this unique museum.

Scientific Education: Gain insights into the science and history of time measurement.
Unusual Attraction: A museum dedicated to clocks and watches is a rarity in itself.
Interactive Exhibits: Enjoy interactive displays that allow you to experience timekeeping devices firsthand.

Climb the ancient citadel for panoramic views of Damascus and explore its archaeological sites.

Historic Landmark: Dates back to the Bronze Age, offering a glimpse into the city's ancient past.
Architectural Masterpiece: Features various architectural styles from different eras, including Roman and Umayyad.
Scenic Views: Enjoy breathtaking views of Damascus from the top of the citadel.

Visit this ancient church that is believed to have been built on the site where St. Paul was converted.

Religious Significance: Holds great importance in Christian history and pilgrimage.
Architectural Beauty: Features a unique blend of Byzantine, Romanesque and Gothic styles.
Historical Importance: A testament to the coexistence of different religions in Damascus over centuries.

Explore a house with intricate snake carvings and stories about an enchanted sisterhood.

Cultural Folklore: Learn about the local legends and folktales associated with the house.
Architectural Details: Admire the intricate carvings of snakes that adorn the house.
Historical Significance: Offers a glimpse into Damascus's folklore and architectural heritage.

Browse the traditional soap factories and buy unique Damascene soaps.

Cultural Craftsmanship: Witness the centuries-old art of soap making.
Unique Products: Purchase fragrant and colorful soaps as souvenirs or for personal use.
Historical Significance: A market that has been operating in Damascus since the medieval period.

Visit a pharmacy that has been operating since the 14th century and offers traditional Arabic remedies.

Historical Significance: One of the oldest continuously running pharmacies in the world.
Cultural Education: Learn about traditional Arabic medicine and remedies.
Unusual Attraction: A pharmacy that has survived for over six centuries is a rarity.

Visit these two religious sites located near each other, both believed to have been built on biblical grounds.

Religious Significance: Both sites hold great importance in Christian and Islamic history.
Architectural Beauty: Featuring unique architectural styles, they offer a visual delight.
Historical Importance: A testament to the religious harmony in Damascus throughout history.

Visit this ancient gate and learn about the legend of St. Thomas.

Cultural Folklore: Learn about the local legends associated with St. Thomas.
Architectural Beauty: Featuring beautiful Islamic carvings and a unique blend of architectural styles.
Historical Significance: Dates back to the Umayyad period, offering a glimpse into Damascus's ancient past.

Visit this unique mosque that is said to be built on the site where Adam and Eve were buried.

Religious Significance: Holds great importance in Islamic and Christian history.
Architectural Beauty: A beautiful example of Ottoman architecture in Syria.
Historical Importance: A testament to the religious harmony in Damascus throughout history.

Experience the vibrant umbrella market featuring colorful and intricately designed umbrellas.

Cultural Craftsmanship: Witness the centuries-old art of umbrella making.
Unique Products: Purchase colorful and intricately designed umbrellas as souvenirs.
Historical Significance: A market that has been operating in Damascus since the medieval period.