Currently, Aleppo is one of the key points in the Syrian war. The city has been under siege by militant groups, including Jaish al-Islam, Ahrar ash-Sham and al-Nusra Front. In the past few months, the ancient city has seen intense clashes between the Syrian Army and local militant groups.
The Old City of Aleppo is the historic center of Aleppo. Many of its districts city remain unchanged since the old city was built during the 12th to 16th century.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
The Old City covers an approximate area of 3.5 square kilometers. There are over 120,000 residents.
Above: The Old City of Aleppo.
Above: The Old City of Aleppo.
Aleppo is situated 360 km north from the Syrian capital of Damascus and 50 km south from the Turkish border. The city lies on the bank of the small Queiq River.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
According to archeologists, the site of the Ancient City has been occupied since 5000 BC.
Above: The Old City of Aleppo.
Above: The Old City of Aleppo.
Aleppo is characterized by a mixture of architectural styles, having been ruled, among the other, by Romans, Byzantines, Seljuqs, Mamluks and Ottomans.
Above: The Old City of Aleppo.
Above: The Old City of Aleppo.
The Old City of Aleppo is composed of the ancient city within the walls and the old cell-like quarters outside the walls.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
In 1986, the ancient city of Aleppo was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Above: The Old City of Aleppo.
Above: The Old City of Aleppo.
The Ancient City of Aleppo is characterized by its large mansions, narrow alleys, covered souks and ancient caravanserais.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
Many ancient buildings in the Old City were destroyed and ruined during clashes between the Syrian Army and the forces of the Free Syrian Army in September 2012.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
Above: A view of the eastern blocks in Aleppo held by militants.
