History & Heritage
Discover Syria's rich history and cultural heritage.
Syrian heritage embodies the diversity of civilizations that have flourished on its land through the ages. It reflects in its traditional cuisine that showcases the richness of Syrian flavors, and in its deep-rooted customs that express a genuine spirit of hospitality. Syria's arts, handicrafts, music, and popular festivals form a living part of its enduring cultural identity. The country is distinguished by its religious, cultural, and ethnic diversity, creating a unique mosaic of coexistence and human richness. Among its most remarkable historical landmarks are Palmyra, Bosra, the Citadel of Aleppo, Krak des Chevaliers, and the Citadel of Hama — timeless witnesses to Syria's enduring history and civilization.
Clothing in Syria
Modern style blends with authentic traditional spirit in Syrian clothing. In major cities, people wear modern clothes similar to what is internationally common, while many in rural and Bedouin areas preserve traditional garments that express their community's identity and history. Clothing varies between cloaks and embroidered robes in rural and mountainous areas, and suits and casual wear in cities, creating a scene that reflects the cultural and ethnic diversity of Syrian society and its harmonious coexistence.
Traditional Syrian Cuisine
Do you prefer fried kibbeh or stuffed vine leaves? And have you ever tasted fattoush or soup the Damascus way? Syrian cuisine is among the finest cuisines of the East, distinguished by its great variety and rich balanced flavors, inspired by the country's rich heritage and authentic hospitality spirit. In every Syrian city there is a special flavor, and in every dish there is a story told by generations. Discover popular restaurants and authentic Damascus kitchens, and enjoy an unforgettable food experience. Here are some famous Syrian dishes:
Syrian Kibbeh
One of the most famous traditional dishes, prepared in various forms - fried, grilled or raw, and often served with yogurt or salad.
Stuffed Vine Leaves (Yabra)
Grape leaves stuffed with rice, meat and spices, cooked with olive oil and served hot or cold.
Fattoush and Tabbouleh
Two famous Syrian salads, prepared with fresh vegetables, olive oil and lemon juice, and served as refreshing appetizers.
Shawarma
One of the most famous dishes in the streets of Damascus and Aleppo, served with Arabic bread, garlic sauce and pickles.
Mujaddara
A mix of lentils, rice and fried onions, a delicious and nutritious home meal.
Makloubeh
Rice with eggplant, cauliflower or chicken, flipped beautifully onto the serving plate to whet the appetite.
Arabic Coffee
Always served in hospitality gatherings, with the aroma of cardamom and its distinctive Syrian character.
Traditional Sweets
Popular sweets that accompany occasions and holidays and are served with tea or coffee.
Syrian Kibsa
A dish influenced by neighboring cuisines, but with a special Syrian touch with a mix of saffron and Damascus spices.
Syrian cuisine is not just food, but a complete cultural experience - a journey through flavors that combines history, hospitality and warmth, leaving the taste of Damascus that cannot be forgotten in memory.
Syrian Traditions and Authentic Hospitality
Syrian society is distinguished by its generosity in hospitality and welcoming visitors, traits that have been passed down through generations since ancient times. Visitors can feel the warmth of treatment and enthusiastic reception throughout the country, as receiving guests is considered a basic part of daily life.
Arabic Coffee and Tea
Arabic coffee is among the most prominent symbols of generosity in Syrian society, often served immediately upon guests' arrival, followed by mint or flower tea. The cup is served with the right hand, and the empty cup is returned gently to indicate satisfaction.
Invitation to the Home
When receiving an invitation to visit a Syrian home, visitors can expect a warm welcome and a table full of the finest traditional dishes. Shoes are often removed near the door before entering the house.
Cultural and Religious Diversity
Syria is a model of diversity and coexistence, as it includes a wide spectrum of religious and cultural components among its people living in harmony and mutual respect. This diversity is reflected in holidays, occasions, music, cuisine, and architecture that distinguish various Syrian regions.
Greetings and Gatherings
Greetings usually begin with a handshake and exchanging friendly phrases such as "Ahlan wa sahlan" (Welcome) or "Nurtena" (You have enlightened us). The "majlis" or "salon" is considered the designated place for receiving guests and exchanging conversations in an atmosphere of friendship and welcome.
The Syrian Table
The Syrian table is famous for its diverse dishes rich in flavors, such as kibbeh, stuffed vegetables, machboos, fattoush, and tabbouleh. Dishes are often served in large shared bowls, expressing the spirit of community and sharing.
Folk Arts and Customs
Folk arts hold a distinguished place in Syrian society, such as the "Dabke" dance and traditional music that accompany occasions and weddings, reflecting joy and cohesion among community members.
Music, Celebrations, and Festivals in Syria
Syrian music has long been associated with Arab heritage that combines singing, playing instruments, and poetry. The melodies of the oud, qanun, and ney accompany evenings in old cafes and cultural events, while popular songs such as the Aleppo qudud and muwashshahat are among the most prominent symbols of authentic Syrian art, as they continue to play a fundamental role in transmitting cultural identity from generation to generation, alongside the presence of contemporary music presented by young artists in modern concerts and festivals.
Folk Dances
Among the most famous traditional dances in Syria is the dabke, where people hold hands and dance in synchronized steps with the rhythm, expressing the spirit of joy and collective cooperation. Other dances also spread that express cultural diversity, such as Kurdish dance known for its vitality and colorful costume, and mountain dance that accompanies rural occasions and national celebrations.
Poetry
Poetry holds a solid position in Syrian culture, as it is used to express pride, love, and homeland, and poems are recited at social and cultural occasions before a wide audience. Nabati, classical, and sung poetry are considered part of the artistic scene that combines words and music in one.
Weddings and Celebrations
Syrian weddings are among the most beautiful manifestations of popular joy, where old customs are mixed with modern celebration methods. Parties are held in halls or large houses and include live music, wedding songs, dabke, and dishes of traditional cuisine. These occasions often bring together family and neighbors in an atmosphere of joy and happiness.
Festivals
Syria is rich throughout the year with numerous cultural and artistic festivals that reflect its geographical and civilizational diversity. Among the most prominent are the Palmyra Tourism Festival, which celebrates the history of the ancient city, and the Bosra International Festival, held in the ancient Roman theater and featuring distinguished musical and theatrical performances. Events are also held on the Syrian coast, such as the Love and Peace Festival in Latakia, alongside the Damascus International Fair, which is one of the oldest fairs in the region and includes diverse artistic and heritage events. Local festivals for folk arts, handicrafts, and traditional music are also held in various provinces, keeping Syria a destination that pulses with life and art throughout the year.
Arts and Handicrafts in Syria
Handicrafts in Syria represent some of the most prominent features of national heritage, expressing the skill and artistic taste of Syrian craftsmen passed down through generations. These crafts are distinguished by their diversity and richness, where authentic Eastern arts meet contemporary creativity.
Wood Inlay with Mother of Pearl Craft
The craft of wood inlay with mother of pearl is among the most famous traditional crafts, used in manufacturing boxes, souvenirs, and decorated furniture with exquisite precision.
Copperware
The craft of copperware stands out, including engraving and decoration on copper utensils, lamps, and plates, and is considered one of the oldest crafts in Syria.
Pottery and Ceramics Production
Pottery and ceramics production spreads in Syrian cities and villages, expressing the connection between art and daily life through its various shapes and patterns.
Traditional Musical Instruments Production
The craft of making traditional musical instruments holds a special place, where craftsmen excel in creating the oud, qanun, and ney using natural materials and precise techniques inherited through centuries.
Colored Glass Production
The craft of colored glass production completes this creative scene, producing amazing artistic works used in decoration and architectural designs.
Syrian handicrafts also include mosaic production, mosaics, hand embroidery, and weaving of woolen and cotton fabrics that decorate homes and markets with their distinctive colors and patterns. These arts and handicrafts form a comprehensive cultural picture that reflects Syria's rich history and civilizational diversity. Visitors can observe them closely in old markets and traditional workshops, acquiring unique pieces that express the spirit and authenticity of the place.
Religious and National Occasions in Syria
Read more to learn about the most prominent religious and national occasions celebrated by Syrians throughout the country.
Religious Festivals
Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha are among the most important religious occasions in Syria, where families gather to celebrate, exchange visits, and offer traditional sweets such as ma'amoul and ka'ak. The streets and markets are decorated with lights and ornaments, and the atmosphere of joy and generosity spreads throughout all cities and villages, creating a scene that combines religious and social aspects expressing the spirit of solidarity and love among people.
Ramadan Month
The month of Ramadan in Syria carries a distinctive spiritual character, as spiritual atmospheres blend with inherited traditions such as firing the Iftar cannon, decorating neighborhoods with lanterns and colored lights, and exchanging Iftar and Suhoor meals between neighbors and friends. Religious and cultural evenings are also held during this month, and delicious dishes of traditional Ramadan cuisine such as fattoush, sambousek, and Eastern beverages are served, making Ramadan an occasion that expresses spiritual joy and social connection at the same time.
Christian Festivals
Syria also celebrates Christian festivals such as Christmas and Easter according to both the Western and Eastern calendars, reflecting the country's religious and cultural diversity. Churches and houses are illuminated with colored lights, and streets and public squares are decorated with Christmas trees and sparkling ornaments, with prayers and hymns held in atmospheres full of love and peace. In cities with an ancient Christian history such as Damascus, Aleppo, Saidnaya, and Maaloula, people exchange greetings and gifts, and the spirit of joy and harmony spreads, bringing together the sons of the homeland from all denominations.
National Occasions
On April 17th of each year, Syrians celebrate Independence Day, commemorating the country's independence from French occupation.
Prominent Historical Destinations
Syria is home to many of the world's most prominent historical and archaeological sites, where ancient civilizations are reflected through eternal Roman amphitheaters, amazing archaeological cities, and fortified castles that tell the story of the Middle Ages.
