Damascus, in southwestern Syria, is widely believed to be the
oldest continuously inhabited city in the world. Its historical
importance has led to the Old City's designation as a World
Heritage Site. Westerners are perhaps best familiar with
Damascus in relation to the Apostle Paul, who was baptized by
Ananias on Straight Street - which can still be seen today.
Damascus also has a connection with John the Baptist: his head
is believed to be in a chapel within the great Umayyad Mosque,
one of the oldest mosques in the world. Damascus has always been
an important religious center - the Umayyad Mosque stands on the
site of a Roman temple and a Christian church - and it remains
so today. Among its many religious places are numerous mosques,
an important Shia shrine, several churches, and the National
Museum with ancient religious artifacts. - Damascus Map Our
detailed, interactive city map of Damascus, showing the location
of sacred sites and religious attractions. - Damascus Photos Our
galleries of hand-selecte