In a scene reflecting the revival of Syrian tourism, three tourist groups, comprising 20 tourists from Europe, Asia, the Americas, and New Zealand, visited the ancient city of Busra al-Sham. They were amazed by the grandeur of its cultural heritage, spanning thousands of years, and its unique architectural diversity, which combines Roman, Byzantine, Nabataean, and Islamic civilizations.
Global Fascination with the Beauty of Syrian Antiquities
Tourists expressed their profound impressions during their tour of the ancient city. Ilsa Rida Onz, an Argentine businesswoman, described her experience, saying, “The architectural design of the citadel and the Roman theater is breathtaking! A rare culmination of different civilizations, each complementing the other in amazing harmony.”
For his part, Angad Kingi, an Indian tourist, emphasized Busra’s unique historical and artistic value, calling for more media attention to such archaeological treasures in Syria so they can have more global recognition as tourist destinations. He expressed his hope for “the return of stability to Syria after years of war that have affected its ancient heritage.”
A Dialogue of Civilizations in the Heart of the City
American tourist, Omay Ali noted that “Busra’s architectural and religious diversity offers a lesson in coexistence and tolerance,” praising his visit to the Umari Mosque and the shrine of Imam al-Nawawi, which reflect the spiritual depth of the region.
Keith O’Meara, an Irish teacher, described wandering through the alleys of the old city as “a journey through an open-air museum, where every stone tells a story of forgotten greatness.” He added, “Busra proves that civilizations are not a conflict, but rather a continuous dialogue across time.” He also called on international organizations to “support efforts to restore antiquities to preserve this human heritage.”
A Milestone in the Lives of Visitors
The tourists did not hide the impact the visit had on them. Abdo Kaiman Manir, a British tourist, described it as “a milestone that changes your outlook on life and history,” emphasizing that “Busra, with its Islamic, Christian, and Byzantine landmarks, deserves to be a destination for anyone seeking beauty and a human story.”
For his part, Abdullah al-Miqdad, head of the Busra al-Sham City Council, emphasized that “the city is working to provide all necessary facilities for visitors,” noting that “revitalizing tourism is a priority in the development plan to revive heritage and strengthen the local economy.”
Busra al-Sham remains a testament to prosperous eras. The stones of its walls, theaters, and mosques tell the stories of empires that rose and fell, leaving behind a unique human legacy. Despite the challenges, the city today proves its ability to regain its role as a tourist gem that captivates the world and presents a living model of coexistence between cultures and religions.
