Great Mosque of Aleppo, Aleppo

The Great Mosque of Aleppo, also known as the Umayyad Mosque of Aleppo, stands as a testament to the city's rich historical and religious heritage. Located in the heart of Aleppo, Syria, this mosque is one of the oldest and largest in the Islamic world, with its foundations dating back to the Umayyad era in the 8th century.

The mosque's striking architecture is a blend of different eras, showcasing the layers of Aleppo's diverse past. Despite suffering significant damage during the recent conflicts in Syria, the Great Mosque remains a symbol of resilience and cultural significance for the people of Aleppo and the broader Muslim community.

The mosque's most prominent feature is its towering minaret, which was originally built in 1090 and had been an iconic landmark of the city's skyline until its destruction in 2013. Efforts to preserve and restore the mosque have been ongoing, underscoring the importance of the site as a place of worship and a historical monument.

Inside, the Great Mosque of Aleppo is known for its vast courtyard and intricate mihrab, which indicates the direction of Mecca. The mosque also houses a religious school and a library, serving as a center for Islamic learning and education for centuries.