Syria
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Syria
Syria: A Land of Ancient Civilizations and Enduring Resilience
Syria, officially the Syrian Arab Republic, is a nation steeped in a history so profound it stretches back to the dawn of civilization. Located in the Levant, a historically rich region of Western Asia, its strategic position at the crossroads of Europe, Asia, and Africa has made it a crucible of cultures, empires, and religions for millennia. This ancient land, though currently grappling with immense challenges, holds within its borders a testament to human ingenuity, artistic expression, and the enduring spirit of its people. Understanding Syria requires delving into its multifaceted identity, shaped by its diverse geography, a tapestry of peoples, and a history punctuated by both glorious achievements and devastating conflicts.
The demographic landscape of Syria is as varied as its history. The majority of the population identifies as Arab, speaking Arabic as their primary language. However, significant ethnic minorities have contributed to the nation’s cultural richness. The Kurds, primarily concentrated in the northeast, possess their own distinct language, culture, and aspirations. Other smaller but historically significant groups include Armenians, Assyrians, Turkmen, and Circassians, each adding a unique thread to the Syrian mosaic. Religiously, Islam is the dominant faith, with the majority being Sunni Muslims. However, Syria has a long and interwoven history with Christianity, with various denominations present for centuries, including Orthodox, Catholic, and Protestant communities. There are also smaller communities of Alawites, Druze, and Yazidis, reflecting the historical tolerance and coexistence that characterized much of Syria’s past. The capital city, Damascus, is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, a living testament to this historical coexistence. Aleppo, another ancient metropolis, was once a vibrant hub of trade and culture, its souks and architecture echoing centuries of prosperity. The Syrian population, though tragically displaced and fractured by recent events, is characterized by a deep sense of heritage and a remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.
Syria’s history is a grand narrative, a chronicle of empires rising and falling, of cultural exchanges that shaped the ancient world. Its strategic location made it a prize for numerous powers throughout history. The earliest evidence of civilization in Syria dates back to the Neolithic period, with settlements like Tell Mureybet showcasing early agricultural practices. The Bronze Age saw the rise of powerful city-states like Ebla and Ugarit, which developed sophisticated writing systems and engaged in extensive trade networks. The Hittites, Egyptians, and Mesopotamian civilizations all vied for influence in the region. Later, Syria became a vital part of the Neo-Assyrian, Neo-Babylonian, and Achaemenid Persian empires. The Hellenistic period, following Alexander the Great’s conquests, brought Greek culture and language to the forefront, with cities like Antioch becoming major centers of learning and commerce. The Roman Empire then incorporated Syria into its vast domain, leaving behind impressive architectural remains such as the Temple of Jupiter in Baalbek (though geographically in modern Lebanon, it was part of Roman Syria) and the Roman theater in Bosra. Christianity spread rapidly within the Roman Empire, and Syria became a significant center of early Christian thought and monasticism. The arrival of Islam in the 7th century marked a profound shift, with Syria becoming a key territory of the Umayyad Caliphate, whose capital was Damascus. This era witnessed a flourishing of Islamic art, architecture, and scholarship. Following the Umayyads, Syria passed through the hands of various dynasties, including the Abbasids, Fatimids, Seljuks, Ayyubids (under Saladin), and Mamluks. The Ottoman Empire’s rule, beginning in the 16th century, lasted for over four centuries, shaping the administrative and cultural landscape of Syria. In the aftermath of World War I, Syria, formerly part of the Ottoman Empire, was placed under French mandate. This period saw the emergence of Syrian nationalism and a struggle for independence, which was eventually achieved in 1946, marking the birth of the modern Syrian Arab Republic. The subsequent decades were characterized by political instability, coups, and the rise of the Ba’ath Party, which eventually brought Hafez al-Assad to power in 1970, followed by his son Bashar al-Assad in 2000. The Syrian Civil War, which erupted in 2011, has tragically rewritten recent chapters of this long and complex history, leading to widespread destruction, displacement, and immense human suffering.
Geographically, Syria presents a diverse and compelling landscape. It is bordered by Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east, Jordan to the south, Lebanon and Israel to the southwest, and the Mediterranean Sea to the west. The country can be broadly divided into several distinct regions. The western coastal plain, stretching along the Mediterranean, is fertile and characterized by a Mediterranean climate. Inland, the country rises to the Syrian Desert, a vast arid expanse that forms a significant portion of its territory. To the east of the coastal mountains lies the fertile crescent, watered by the Euphrates River, which has been the lifeblood of agriculture in the region for millennia. The Orontes River also flows through Syria, contributing to its agricultural potential. The Anti-Lebanon mountain range forms a natural border with Lebanon, featuring peaks that are snow-capped in winter. The Euphrates River, the longest river in Western Asia, has historically played a crucial role in Syrian civilization, supporting its agricultural heartland and ancient cities. The countrys varied topography has influenced its settlement patterns, economic activities, and strategic importance throughout history. The contrast between the fertile coastal strip, the arid desert, and the life-giving rivers has shaped the resilience and adaptability of its people.
Historically, Syria has been a significant center of industry and trade, leveraging its strategic location and natural resources. Agriculture has always been a cornerstone of the Syrian economy. Wheat, barley, cotton, lentils, and olives are major crops, with the fertile plains along the Euphrates and the coastal regions being particularly productive. The country also boasts significant livestock raising, especially sheep and goats. In terms of industry, Syria has had a developing industrial sector, with key areas including textiles, food processing, and petrochemicals. Phosphate mining has also been an important resource. The country’s oil reserves, though not as vast as some of its neighbors, have historically contributed to its economy, particularly in the northeast. However, the ongoing conflict has had a devastating impact on all sectors of the Syrian economy, leading to widespread destruction of infrastructure, disruption of trade routes, and a severe decline in industrial output. Pre-war, tourism was also a significant contributor, attracting visitors to its ancient ruins, historical cities, and diverse landscapes. The port of Latakia on the Mediterranean coast has been a vital hub for international trade.
Syria’s rich history is etched into its landscape, offering a wealth of tourist attractions that, in more peaceful times, drew visitors from around the globe. Damascus, the capital, is a city of immense historical significance, boasting the magnificent Umayyad Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. The ancient city walls, the labyrinthine souks, and the National Museum offer glimpses into its glorious past. Aleppo, before its widespread destruction in the civil war, was renowned for its magnificent citadel, its vibrant covered souks, and its intricate architecture, a testament to centuries of trade and cultural exchange. The ancient city of Bosra, a former capital of the Roman province of Arabia, features a remarkably well-preserved Roman theater and other Roman ruins. Palmyra, the “Pearl of the Desert,” was an ancient caravan city and a UNESCO World Heritage site, famed for its monumental colonnades, temples, and tombs, evoking the grandeur of a bygone era. Krak des Chevaliers, a magnificent Crusader castle perched on a hilltop, stands as a formidable example of medieval military architecture. Apamea, another ancient city, boasts impressive Roman colonnades and remains of its Hellenistic past. The coastal city of Latakia offers a pleasant Mediterranean ambiance with its beaches and historical sites. The diverse religious heritage is also evident, with numerous ancient churches, monasteries, and mosques scattered throughout the country. These sites, testaments to Syria’s enduring cultural legacy, are now tragically scarred by conflict, their future uncertain. The resilience of the Syrian people, however, offers a glimmer of hope that these treasures may one day be restored and once again welcome visitors, sharing their stories of a land that has witnessed the ebb and flow of civilizations for millennia.
Information about Syria
The information comes from the publication CIA The World Factbook.
Automated text translation, excuse errors, please!
Country Syria is situated in a location / continent Middle East. Syria has an area of 185 180 km2 and 22 530 746 residents. The highest point has a height 2 814 above sea level. and it is called Mount Hermon. The lowest point is located at the level of -200 above sea level and it is named unnamed location near Lake Tiberias. System of government is republic and the date of independence 17th April 1946. The capital city is Damascus. Syria has the international abbreviation SY.
Syria - economy
Total gross domestic product (GDP) is 107 600 000 000 $. Total gross domestic product per capita in purchasing power parity is 5 100 $. GDP grows by -2.00 % a year. Inflation (consumer price index) is equal to 4.80 % a year. Syria have 5 642 000 working-age population (from a total population 22 530 746 people). Unemployment is at 12.30 %. Syria issued 2.90 % GDP to healt care and 5,90 % GDP to army. The public debt of the country is 35.20 % GDP. The total amount of foreign debt is 7 074 000 000 USD.
Syria - demography
As suggested above, Syria has 22 530 746 people. Population growth is in the amount -0.80 % per year. Number of children born per 1000 population per year is 23.52.Every mother has average 2.85 children. The infant mortality rate is 15.12 and maternal mortality 70.00 deaths per 100,000 births. Average estimated life expectancy makes 74.92 years. Mortality is 3.67 people per 1000 population per year.
Syria - transport and telecommunications
Syria has 68 157 km of roads, 2 052 km of railway lines and 99 airports. The total length of waterways (navigable rivers, canals, etc.) is 900 km. There is registered 19 ships.
Number of active mobile phones (sim card) in the country Syria is 13 117 000. Number of active fixed telephone lines is 4 345 000. Syria has 4 469 000 internet users, who have the available 420 Internet connections. Syria has been assigned a domain first Choose range .sy.
Syria - energetics
Syria consumes a year 28 870 000 000 kWh of electricity. Annual electricity production is 40 860 000 000 kWh in power plants with a total installed electrical capacity 8 200 000 kW. Syria exports 0 kWh and imports 0 kWh of electricity per year Energy mix of power generation is as follows: fossil fuels: 84.8 %, nuclear energy: 0 %, renewable: 0.0 %, hydropower: 15.2 %. The country Syria is harvested annually 333 900 barrels of oil.
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