Aleppo: Ancient Crossroads of History and Resilience

Why in the news?

Aleppo, one of the world’s oldest cities, highlights its historical and cultural significance amid its recovery from extensive destruction during the Syrian Civil War, symbolizing resilience and the preservation of ancient heritage despite modern challenges.

Aleppo: Ancient Crossroads of History and Resilience

Historical Significance:

  • Ancient Heritage: Aleppo, known as “Halab” in Arabic, is among the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, referenced in Egyptian texts from the 20th century BCE.
  • Strategic Location: Situated in northern Syria, approximately 50 km from the Turkish border, it lies between the Mediterranean Sea and the Euphrates River.
  • Historic Rule: A vital crossroads of trade routes since the 2nd millennium BCE, it has been ruled by the Hittites, Assyrians, Arabs, Mongols, and Ottomans.

Geography and Architecture:

  • Elevation and Plateau: Located at 1,300 feet on a plateau, Aleppo’s terrain shaped its historical prominence.
  • Iconic Citadel: The medieval citadel, perched on a 130-foot hill, showcases its architectural and cultural heritage.
  • Quwayq River: The river flows through the city but often dries up due to upstream water usage in Turkey.

Modern Challenges:

  • Civil War Impact: Aleppo faced extensive destruction during the Syrian Civil War (2012–2016), becoming a symbol of humanitarian devastation.
  • Cultural Loss: Historic sites and infrastructure suffered severe damage, highlighting the war’s toll on Syria’s cultural legacy.
  • Resilience: Despite challenges, Aleppo remains a testament to human endurance and the preservation of ancient history.

Aleppo City:

  • Location: Northern Syria, ~30 miles south of the Turkish border.
  • River: Quwayq River flows through the city but often dries due to heavy water use in Turkey.
  • Control Shift: Recently overtaken by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) after a decade.
  • Significance:
  • Ancient trade hub at major commercial route crossroads.
  • UNESCO World Heritage site, including the “Old City of Aleppo” and its iconic medieval citadel.

About Syria:

  • Capital: Damascus.
  • Neighbours: Turkey, Iraq, Jordan, Israel, Lebanon, and the Mediterranean Sea.
  • Rivers: Euphrates, Barada, and Quwayq.
  • Civil War: Began in 2011, fueled by authoritarianism, sectarianism, and Saudi-Iran rivalry.

This historic city continues to reflect its rich past while grappling with modern-day challenges.

Sources Referred:

PIB, The Hindu, Indian Express, Hindustan Times