A visit to Damascus is a visit to one of the oldest cities in the world. At least that is what is believed because settlements here does go several thousand of years back. Many have found Damascus worth fighting about. Among the conquerers are Assyrians, Persiens, Romans and even the Mongols occupied Damascus a short period. I was in Syria before the outbreak of the Civil War and was lucky to be able to enjoy both Damascus and some of the ancient cities that ISIS later took control of, destroying many of the temples.
These photos were taken in the Umayyad Mosque in Damascus – one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world. This magnificent mosque, is one of the most sacred buildings in Syria, well worth more than one visit. It is such a beautiful mosque to spend time. After walking around to have a good look both inside and outside, I really enjoyed sitting in the shadow, watching people walk to and forth. That's acutally the reason many of the photos are taken from a low angle.
The present - day site of the Umayyad Mosque, has been the site of many sacred places of worship. The first were the Armenians. Almost 3000 years ago they buildt a tempel for their god Hadad – the god of thunderstorms and rain. This god played av central role until the Roman empire took control of Damacus in 64 B.C. Then the Roman god of thunder Jupiter became the god of the temple. But that didn't last. In the 4th century it became the site of a Christian cathedral, due to a Christian emperor. Later this cathedral was dedicated to John the Baptist. There is a legend saying that his head is burried here.
Then Islam arrived. That happened after a Muslim conquest in 634 and now the mosque was built on the same site. John the Baptist was honored by both Christians and Muslims. It is also said that the mosque is believed to be the place where Jesus will return.
Damascus is a city who has excisted in the intersection between new cultures, politics and religions, so it's perhaps not so strange, that the mosque has a rather turbulent history. But it is impressive and one of the most beautiful I have seen.
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U.J
Kristiansand, Norway
All the photoes are mine, Ulla Jensen (flickr, Instagram and facebook)
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