Geography and Location

Syria is located in the heart of the Middle East, sharing borders with Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east, Jordan to the south, Israel to the southwest, and Lebanon and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. The country has diverse landscapes, including coastal plains, mountain ranges, and vast deserts.

History

Syria has a long and complex history, being one of the cradles of civilization:

1. Ancient Syria: Early settlements date back to the Neolithic period. By the Bronze Age, city-states like Ebla and Ugarit flourished.
2. Classical Antiquity: The region came under the control of various empires, including the Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks (under Alexander the Great), and Romans. The city of Palmyra was a significant trade center during the Roman era.
3. Islamic Conquests: In the 7th century, Syria was conquered by Arab Muslim armies and became part of the Umayyad Caliphate, with Damascus as its capital.
4. Ottoman Period: From the early 16th century until World War I, Syria was part of the Ottoman Empire.
5. French Mandate and Independence: After World War I, Syria was placed under French mandate until it gained independence in 1946.