Fact 1: Ancient Cradle of Civilization
Syria harbors some of the oldest known human inhabited sites in the world, dating back an astonishing 7000 years BC. Archaeologists have discovered artefacts and architectural remnants from those eras at sites like Ebla and Mari.
Fact 2: The name 'Syria' is borrowed from the Greeks
When the Greek civilization rose to prominence in the Mediterranean and collided with the eastern civilization that was Syria, the Greeks named it relentlessly after Assyria, a powerful ancient empire that had declined by the time of Greek ascendency.
Fact 3: A diverse linguistic haven
Although Arabic is the official language in Syria, it is a diverse country with a multitude of languages spoken throughout its territories. Some of these include Kurdish, Armenian, Aramaic, and Circassian, amongst others.
Fact 4: Syria's capital Damascus is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities on Earth
Founded in the 3rd millennium BC, Damascus is one of the oldest continually inhabited locations in the world. It is considered the center of culture and religious tolerance and has been a meeting point for many civilizations.
Fact 5: Home to the world’s first University
Jundishapur University was established in 271 AD in Syria and is often considered as the world’s first degree-granting university. It was an essential centre for higher learning in the Middle East before the rise of European universities.
Fact 6: Picture-perfect Postage Stamps
Syria was one of the first nations to implement the use of postage stamps, issuing its first batch as early as 1860 - even before some European nations.
Fact 7: Syria is home to six UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Despite its compact size, Syria houses six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the famous Ancient City of Aleppo, the Ancient city of Bosra, the Site of Palmyra, the Ancient City of Damascus, Crac des Chevaliers and Qal’at Salah El-Din, and the Ancient Villages of Northern Syria.
Fact 8: Home to the world's heaviest shortbread cookie
In 2007, Syria got its name in the Guinness Book of World Records for producing the world's heaviest shortbread cookie, weighing about 3844 kilograms.
Fact 9: The Syrian Desert is one of the largest in the world
Covering over half of Syria, the Syrian Desert, also known as the Syrian-Arabian Desert, extends into Jordan, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. It is one of the largest deserts in the world.
Fact 10: Syrian cuisine is as diverse as its culture
Syrian cuisine is permeated with luxurious really Middle Eastern flavors. It's famous for various kinds of kebabs, lamb dishes, stuffed vegetables, and a rich medley of hummus, falafel, and shawarma.
Fact 11: Syria houses the world's largest restaurant
In 2008, Damascus debuted the world's largest restaurant, known as Bawabet Dimashq Restaurant, which can serve 6014 customers simultaneously.
Fact 12: Syria has the Oldest Wine-Making Tradition
In the city of Aleppo, archaeologists discovered wine-making tools dating back to 6000 years, cementing Syria’s status as one of the oldest winemaking regions in the world.
Fact 13: Syria has a Marked Roman Influence
Syria was once a crucial part of the Roman Empire, and various Roman ruins, such as the colossal Bosra amphitheater, are strewn about its lands as a reminder of its Roman past.
Fact 14: It has more than 100 Archaeological Sites
Syria is a historian's dream, with over 100 archaeological sites that offer a glimpse into the ancient civilizations that once called this land home.
Fact 15: More than 80 Percent of the Population Follows Islam
The majority of the Syrian population are Muslim, with Sunnis comprising the majority. However, Syria has a significant Christian minority, and is home to various other religious groups.
Fact 16: Syria is one of the top Olive Oil Producers
Syria is ranked among the top five olive oil-producing nations in the world. Olive Oil plays a vital role in Syrian cuisine and its economy.
Fact 17: It has the world’s oldest surviving Military Institution
The Military of Syria dates back to the year 1946, making it the oldest military institution among its neighboring countries.
Fact 18: Home to Snowfall and Ski Resorts
Not all parts of Syria feature a desert landscape. Its highest point, Mount Hermon, regularly receives snowfall, and features a ski resort with three slopes.
Fact 19: The Syrian flag has different Symbols bearing different Meanings
The two stars in the Syrian flag represent Syria and Egypt, symbolizing their union from 1958 to 1961. The Red color symbolizes the blood shed for freedom, the white color for peace, and black for the dark past.
Fact 20: Popular Traditional Dance Dabke
Dabke is a popular traditional folk dance in Syria, performed mostly at weddings and festivals. The dance involves a line of men and/or women joining hands and moving in unison.