Syria
Damascus, Still the Oldest City
Overview
An ancient cradle of civilization home to Damascus, one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities, devastated by civil war since 2011 but rich in cultural heritage.
Geographic Context
Region
Asia
Subregion
Western Asia
Land Area
185,180 km²
Capital
Damascus
Languages
Arabic
Currencies
Syrian pound (£)
At a Glance
15
Oyster Score
Composite index
Health
25
Freedom
14
Security
6
Life Expectancy
72.4 yrs
Median Age
22.2 yrs
Urbanization
58%
Cost Index
18
Housing Index
9
Healthcare Access
28/100
Climate
Average Temperature
17.6°C
Most Temperate Cities
1 Tartouss 21.4°C
2 Jablah 20.8°C
3 Al Mālikīyah 19.3°C
4 Al Ḩasakah 19.2°C
5 Al Qāmishlī 18.9°C
Cities
Economy & Finance
Society & Governance
International
Travel
Visas & Entry Requirements
Visa-Free 28 countries
Diplomatic Relations
Embassies & Alliances
Missions 33
Defence
Military & Security
Mil. Spending 4.06% GDP
Infrastructure
Energy & Transport
Internet Speed 15 Mbps
Environment
Emissions & Biodiversity
Disaster Risk 77/100
Alternatives
Similar Jurisdictions
Jurisdiction Guide
Tips & Cultural Insights
Frequently Asked Questions
Sources: World Bank | WHO | Freedom House | OECD · Last updated: 2025