Aleppo, the resilient heart of Syria's ancient and modern history

Aleppo is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities. Throughout its history, it has faced many challenges, including earthquakes, epidemics, and internal conflicts.
The origin of its name is uncertain, with several theories suggesting different meanings: in the Amorite language, it may mean "iron or copper," as the city was an important supplier of these metals in ancient times; in Aramaic, it translates to "white," referring to the abundant marble in the area; while in Arabic, it means "milk." Aleppo is also known as the "grey city" due to the color of the limestone used in the construction of its citadel and many buildings.
Located in northwestern Syria, Aleppo is situated halfway between the Levantine Sea and the Euphrates River, approximately 60 km from the Mediterranean coast and about 40 km from the Turkish border. It lies in the center of a fertile basin irrigated by the Queiq River, surrounded by agricultural lands and nomadic territories.
Aleppo was at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, where caravans not only exchanged goods of varying value but also spread cultural influences from distant lands:

  • The Silk Road: An intercontinental trade route connecting the Roman Empire to China, where caravans would travel to trade silk, perfumes, and spices with the Far East.
  • The trade route from India: Facilitating the exchange of goods and culture between India and the Middle East.
  • The route toward Damascus: Linking Aleppo with one of the key cities of the region, enhancing its role as a major trade hub.

Early History

The city’s history dates back to at least the 3rd millennium BCE. Its Arabic name, Ḥalab, appears in ancient records from the city of Ebla, highlighting its significance in the region. Aleppo was an important religious center, with a temple dedicated to the storm god Hadad, located on the hill where its famous citadel now stands. Over the centuries, it served as the capital of the Amorite kingdom of Yamkhad and later came under Hittite, Egyptian, Mitannian, and Assyrian control.

Classical and Islamic Eras

During the Hellenistic period, the city was renamed Beroea by the Seleucids and became a prominent trade center between the Mediterranean and the East. It was later absorbed into the Roman Empire and continued to thrive under Byzantine rule until it was ravaged by the Persian Sasanian king Khosrow I in 540 CE.
After the Arab conquest in 637, Aleppo reverted to its ancient name, Ḥalab, and became a cultural and political hub under the Ḥamdānid dynasty in the 10th century. It gained a reputation for its intellectual and cultural achievements, hosting renowned poets and philosophers.

Aleppo Citadel overlooking the city, or the fortress that from a hill overlooks the town.
Aleppo Citadel overlooking the city, or the fortress that from a hill overlooks the town.

Crusades and Ayyūbid Rule

In the 12th century, Aleppo played a crucial role in resisting the Crusader invasions. It was fortified by rulers like ʿImād al-Dīn Zangī and later came under the control of the Ayyūbid dynasty, led by Saladin. Under Ayyūbid rule, Aleppo experienced a golden age of prosperity, trade, and architectural development, with strong ties to Europe and Asia.

Mongol Invasions and Ottoman Era

The city’s fortune changed dramatically when it was sacked by the Mongols in 1260 and again by Timur in 1400. However, it recovered during the Ottoman era, becoming a significant provincial capital and commercial center in the 16th and 17th centuries. European merchants from Venice, Britain, France, and the Netherlands set up consulates, enhancing Aleppo's role in international trade.

Modern Challenges

Aleppo’s prosperity began to wane in the 18th century due to shifts in global trade routes and political instability. During the late Ottoman period, the city faced economic decline, factional strife, and unrest. After World War I, the drawing of modern Syrian borders disrupted Aleppo’s trade connections, impacting its economic standing. Despite this, it grew into an industrial hub in the 20th century.

Syrian Civil War

During the Syrian Civil War (2011-2016), Aleppo became a battleground, experiencing severe destruction. Although it initially stayed quiet, by 2012, it turned into a conflict zone. In 2016, the city was recaptured by Syrian forces, marking a tragic chapter in its long history.

Aleppo (Eastern Mediterranean)
Aleppo (Eastern Mediterranean)



Last update: October 9, 2024

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