population: 1.71 million

extension: 105 square kilometers

Museums

If you're in Damascus and interested in visiting museums, one great option is the National Museum of Damascus. It is located in the heart of the city and offers a comprehensive collection of artifacts, including archaeological finds from throughout Syria's history.

Another museum you might enjoy is the Azem Palace Museum, which is located in a beautifully restored 18th-century palace and showcases traditional Syrian architecture and decorative arts.

If you're looking for similar museums in the area, you may want to consider visiting the Aleppo Museum or the Hama Regional Museum, both of which offer exhibits on Syrian history and culture.

Food

Damascus is known for its rich, flavorful cuisine, which draws on a variety of influences from across the Middle East. Here are some dishes that are popular and typical in Damascus:

1. Shawarma - A popular street food that consists of marinated meat (usually chicken or beef) that is cooked on a vertical spit, shaved off, and served in a wrap with salads, vegetables, and sauces.

2. Kibbeh - A dish made from minced meat (usually lamb or beef) that is mixed with bulgur wheat, spices, and onion, then shaped into balls or patties and fried or baked.

3. Fattoush - A refreshing salad made with tomatoes, cucumber, parsley, mint, onions, and crispy pieces of pita bread, dressed with a tangy lemon and olive oil dressing.

4. Hummus - A creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, and olive oil, often served as an appetizer with fresh vegetables or bread.

5. Muhammara - A spicy dip made from roasted red peppers, walnuts, breadcrumbs, and spices, often served as an appetizer or condiment.

6. Baklava - A sweet pastry made from layers of phyllo dough filled with chopped nuts and honey syrup, often served as dessert or as a treat with tea or coffee.

7. Maqluba - A dish made of rice, meat, and vegetables, that is cooked together in a pot, then flipped onto a platter so that the rice forms a crispy crust on top.

These are just a few examples of the delicious and popular dishes you can try while in Damascus, but there are many more to discover!

Activities

There are many fun activities that local people enjoy in Damascus. Here are a few suggestions:

1. Visit the Old City: This historic area is full of winding alleys, ancient buildings and markets selling everything from spices to textiles.

2. Try some local food: Syrian cuisine is known for its delicious mezze dishes, such as hummus, tabbouleh, and fattoush. You'll find plenty of restaurants serving up these tasty dishes in Damascus.

3. Explore the Souq Al-Hamidiyya: This bustling market is one of the largest in the city, selling everything from clothing to jewelry to souvenirs.

4. Visit the Umayyad Mosque: This stunning mosque is one of the oldest and most important in the world, and is an important pilgrimage site for Muslims.

5. Take a walk in Al-Jahiz Park: This beautiful park is located in the heart of Damascus and offers a peaceful respite from the busy city streets. It's a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the outdoors.