Rakka (Syria): historical information and sights

Rakka (Syria) is one of the most beautiful cities in the Middle East. The history of this province is interesting and complex, so it requires a thorough study. This is one of the cities rich in oil, which today is the center of the Islamic state.

Some historical information

The city of Rakka in Syria, according to some sources, was founded in 244 BC. The first name of the city is Kallinik. In the Byzantine phase, the settlement was renamed to the city of Leontopol, but the locals remained adamant and called their monastery in honor of the founding king. The city received its modern name only in 693, when its territory was transferred to the administration of Arab Muslims.

The modern stage

After the Islamic state has increased its influence in the Middle East, the territory of Rakka (Syria) has come under the control of representatives of the terrorist organization IGIL. This was the result of a fierce battle for patronage over Er-Raqqa. The civil war involved the forces of the Syrian state army and terrorists of the Islamic state. August 2014, or rather the battle for the key Tabak base, was the final of this battle, which led to the province of Rakka (Syria) being controlled by the rebels. Today the Shariah is established in the city. The settlement was designated as the capital of the Islamic state.

The situation in the city of Rakka today

After the laws of Sharia were established in the province of Rakka , the life of local residents changed dramatically. All crimes are punished, but especially theft and violation of the laws of Islam. For the theft of an arm, and for violating religious dogmas, residents will respond with a head in the truest sense of the word.

The rules of residence of women have become tougher. All representatives of the weaker sex should wear a veil of black color, and for violation of this rule there will be the most terrible consequences, including public censure. Christian churches are completely destroyed to the last stone and burned to the ground, also persecutions and executions of the faithful are carried out. The sale of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes is completely prohibited.

Friday mosque is the main attraction of the city of Rakka

One of the most revered sights in this region is the Great Mosque, located in the city of Rakka (Syria). This architectural structure was erected in the distant VIII century during the reign of Khalifa Al-Mansur. Due to constant battles and battles, the original view of the mosque was not preserved. In the past, this religious building had 11 towers, which were located on the periphery. Today there is only one tower left, the height of which is 25 meters. In addition, the inscription survived, indicating an invaluable contribution to the restoration of the Nur al-Din mosque. The inner courtyard of the Great Mosque is a unique confirmation of Arab architecture.

Qasr al-Banat - architectural masterpiece of the 12th century

Rakka (Syria) is one of the most ancient cities in the Middle East. That is why a large number of historical monuments are concentrated here, to which the Maiden Palace can be considered. To date, Qasr al-Banat is the ruins of a former residence. People who saw them express enthusiastic words about this architectural structure. Numerous researchers who repeatedly excavated in the city came to a common opinion that the style of construction is reminiscent of the buildings erected in Iran. Open spaces are adjacent to the vaulted ceilings. At the present stage, attempts have repeatedly been made to restore the Maiden Palace to its original state, so the territory is fenced.

The Baghdad Gate is a testament to the past

Not less popular on the part of researchers use the famous Baghdad Gate, or rather their remains, located in the city of Rakka (Syria). According to the data obtained by archaeologists during excavation and research, the construction of the gate took place in the XII century. It distinguishes this subject of cultural and historical heritage with a unique style. Mesopatamian style stands out as a kind of decorative brickwork and arch arches that can be seen at the top of the stone gate.

The Baghdad Gate is in the southeast of the capital of the Islamic state. Access to the sights is open to all comers, but in recent years, visits by foreigners to these ruins are highly discouraged for the sake of health and safety of life.

Summing up, we can conclude that the province of Rakka with the same city is an object of cultural and historical heritage. However, today the city, like all the attractions that are in it, are under threat, which is referred to in the modern world as an Islamic state.