Old Aleppo

In the heart of the city of Aleppo, along its narrow alleys and historic markets, Old Aleppo stands as a witness to centuries of civilization and heritage. This area, one of the oldest and largest continuously inhabited historical cities, is not merely a collection of stone buildings and covered markets; it is the true soul of Aleppo, embodying the fusion of cultures and eras throughout history.

Old Aleppo represents a unique urban fabric where ancient buildings blend with mosques and schools, and markets intertwine with traditional Aleppine houses, forming an architectural masterpiece that reflects the authentic Eastern character. Since its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1986, this area has garnered global attention due to its cultural and historical significance.

However, despite its richness, Old Aleppo has not been spared from the effects of time and conflict. During the Syrian war, it suffered significant destruction that affected its historic markets, ancient mosques, and even its famous citadel, which had long stood proudly atop Aleppo’s hill. Nevertheless, efforts continue to revive this area and preserve its historical identity, ensuring it remains a testament to a grand past and a future worthy of care and attention.

In this article, we will take you on a journey through the alleys of Old Aleppo to explore together the secrets of its landmarks, history, and the major events it has witnessed…

The Unique Urban Fabric of Old Aleppo:

With its distinctive urban design, Old Aleppo carries within it a long history reflecting the intermingling of Islamic, Byzantine, Mamluk, and Ottoman civilizations. The city follows a radial pattern centered around the Aleppo Citadel, from which markets and residential neighborhoods branch out, with narrow alleys that aid in ventilation and mitigate the summer heat.

Among its diverse neighborhoods, Al-Jalloum stands out with its Arab-style homes featuring spacious courtyards and religious schools that once served as centers of learning and social life. Meanwhile, the Al-Aqaba neighborhood is characterized by its narrow alleys and historic buildings that narrate tales of past centuries. The Al-Farafira district is known for its traditional handicrafts and houses several churches and mosques, reflecting the city's religious coexistence. The Banqusa district, on the other hand, testifies to the city's commercial prosperity, as it contains inns and markets that have been bustling with activity for centuries.

Traditional architecture is exemplified in old houses with interior courtyards adorned with fountains and jasmine trees, along with intricately carved wooden doors that showcase the craftsmanship of Aleppine artisans. Surrounding Aleppo are seven historic gates, including Bab Antakya, Bab Al-Faraj, and Bab Qinnasrin, which once connected the city to the outside world, highlighting its importance as a commercial and cultural hub through the ages.

Prominent Historical Landmarks of Old Aleppo:

Old Aleppo is an architectural treasure trove containing numerous historical landmarks that reflect the city's rich history. These landmarks have played a vital role in Aleppo's religious, commercial, and defensive life over the centuries.

A. Aleppo Citadel… The Jewel of the City

Standing tall in the heart of the old city, Aleppo Citadel is one of the largest fortresses in the world. Its origins date back to ancient times, but most of its current structure belongs to the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods. The citadel features massive walls, defensive towers, a royal palace, and water reservoirs, making it a historically significant center.

B. The Great Umayyad Mosque

The Umayyad Mosque in Aleppo is one of the oldest Islamic mosques in the city. It was built during the Umayyad era and later expanded in subsequent periods. The mosque is distinguished by its intricately carved wooden pulpit, its vast courtyard, and its minaret, which was an architectural icon before its destruction during the war.

C. The Old Markets and Caravanserais

Old Aleppo boasts the world’s largest network of covered markets, dating back to the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods. Among the most notable are:

• Souq Al-Madina: The heart of Aleppo’s trade, extending over 13 km of commercial passages.
• Souq Al-Attarin and Al-Nahhasin: Centers for thriving traditional industries.
• Historic Caravanserais, such as Khan Al-Wazir, Khan Al-Jumruk, and Khan Al-Hareer, which once served as stops for trade caravans.

D. Traditional Bathhouses

Public bathhouses were an essential part of social life in Old Aleppo. Among the most famous are Hammam Al-Nahhasin, known for its traditional architectural design, and Hammam Yalbugha, one of the oldest bathhouses in the city.

E. Aleppine Heritage Houses

These houses are known for their elegant designs, spacious courtyards, and Eastern-style decorations that reflect the city's unique architectural character. Among these, Beit Ajiqbash stands out as a remarkable example of traditional Aleppine architecture, combining simplicity and luxury with decorative details showcasing the skills of Aleppine builders.

Meanwhile, Beit Ghazaleh is one of the most exquisite historical houses in the city, featuring intricate decorations and finely carved stone arches. This house has witnessed the transformations of time yet still retains its historical charm, serving as a symbol of Old Aleppo and a guardian of the city's architectural heritage.

Social and Cultural Life in Old Aleppo:

The daily life in Old Aleppo’s alleys was full of vibrancy, with markets, mosques, and traditional houses forming an interconnected social fabric that reflected the city's authenticity. The old city was also a melting pot of cultures, where Muslims, Christians, and Jews coexisted in harmony, influencing each other’s traditions and daily customs.

Markets were not merely commercial centers but also social gathering spots where people exchanged news and listened to storytellers in traditional cafes. Handicrafts such as Aleppine soap making, textiles, and copperwork flourished, alongside Aleppine cuisine, renowned for its famous dishes such as kebab, stuffed vegetables, and baklava. These elements made Old Aleppo a hub of social and cultural life throughout history.

Conclusion:

Old Aleppo has always been the soul of the city and its living history, spanning across centuries. However, the recent war left its harsh mark on this area, as many of its historical landmarks, including the Umayyad Mosque, the ancient markets, and Aleppo Citadel, suffered extensive destruction, stripping them of part of their ancient glory. Some neighborhoods turned to rubble, and many houses that once held the stories of generations of Aleppines were reduced to ruins.

Despite this pain, Old Aleppo has not lost its will to survive and endure. Reconstruction efforts are breathing life back into its streets, as international and local organizations work to restore its historical landmarks and revive its markets and traditional homes, preserving Aleppo’s identity that has long been a symbol of culture and history. Although the journey ahead remains long, Old Aleppo will rise again, just as it has throughout its history, standing as a witness to the greatness of the past and a beacon of hope for the future.