Global Treasures: Syria (Damascus)

Television Director: Ullman, Frank

Producer: Scarson, Peter O.

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Catalogue Number: GTR-DVD-1243

UPC: 879061008429

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Global Treasures - History's Most Protected Monuments - Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live today, and what we pass on to future generations. Our cultural and natural heritage are both irreplaceable sources of life and inspiration. Places as unique and diverse as the wilds of East Africa's Serengeti, the Pyramids of Egypt, the Great Barrier Reef in Australia and the Baroque cathedrals of Latin America make up our world's heritage. Join us as we explore one of these protected monuments.

Damascus is one of the most fascinating cities in the Orient, and its colorful history is still very much apparent in its magnificent palaces.

Today, an impressive statue serves as a reminder of the city's famous monarch, Saladin. In the 12th century he did much to improve the city.

A walk through the historic centre of Damascus is like a journey through more than 2,000 years of oriental history. In contrast to many other cities in the Near and Middle East, most of the original buildings within the old town have survived the test of time.

The city's strategic location at the junction of several important caravan routes gave rise to a large number of fortified inns or "caravansaries" such as the Khan As'ad Pasha Al Azem.

The Omayyad Mosque was for many years the largest and most revered in the Islamic world, and the splendid furnishings of its interior make this building a veritable treasure trove.

The historic splendor of Syria's remarkable capital city really is like a paradise on earth.