Syria

Syria is a country with a rich history and impressive cultural heritage, home to some of the world's oldest civilizations. Before the conflict that began in 2011, it was a prominent tourist destination in the Middle East, with sites such as Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world; Palmyra, an archaeological gem of the Roman Empire; and Aleppo, with its famous souk and citadel. In addition, Syria boasts important Islamic and Christian monuments, such as the Great Umayyad Mosque and the Krak des Chevaliers. Although tourism has been severely affected by the war, efforts have been made in recent years to restore some historic sites and revive the tourism industry in certain, safer areas.