Damascus is the capital city of Syria. It is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its current population is estimated at about 6 million including the surrounding area. Damascus may have been inhabited as early as 10,000 BC.

Damascus lies on a plateau 680 meters (2,200 ft) above sea-level about 80 km (50 miles) inland from the Mediterranean Sea, sheltered by mountains. The old city is enclosed by city walls and has a wealth of historical sites, e g the citadel, the Grand Mosque and Souk Medhat Pasha.

The Umayyad Mosque, also known as the Grand Mosque of Damascus, is one of the largest mosques in the world, and one of the oldest sites of continuous prayer. A shrine in the mosque is said to contain the head of Hussein, the son of Muhammad, and the body of St. John the Baptist.

A 1200-meter high mountain, Mount Kassioun overlooks Damascus. Hiking up the mountain or driving along the ridge is popular. There are lots of cafes and food stands where you can sit out at the edge to have a drink. The view is beautiful, and the sunset a must-see. At night, Damascus lights shine like small stars.

Damascus offers some great restaurants and cafes where you can try the delicious local cuisine. Some of the Damascene houses of the Old City have been beautifully renovated and now function as restaurants specializing in local dishes. All over Damascus you find juice stands at street corners, serving freshly squeezed and blended fruits at your choice. Modern Damascus has a number of snack bars and traditional eateries where you can grab a quick falafel, find your favorite French pastries, or local walnut delights.

Damascus is the main center of education in Syria and Damascus University, which is the oldest and by far the largest university in Syria, is located in the city.

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