| 5-8 Damascus claims to be the oldest continuously inhabited city. Through the centuries it's been a Persian capital, Greek prize, Roman pearl and Islamic center. The old quarter, enclosed by walls, retains its ancient character. We walk through a magnificent souq, best we've seen in the Middle East because of its grand atmosphere - vaulted ceilings, covered walkways, and polite vendors. There's a large Christian area too. The St. Paul's church strides a breach in the city wall. Along the northern wall runs the city's former lifeline, the thin, dirty Barada River, that adds to Damascus's decayed charm.
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| The vaulted archway over Damascus's souq. The sides are bordered by magnificent khans. |
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| The khans, or merchant's houses, sumptuously decorated. |
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| Women windowshop beneath their veils
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| Great Arabic atmosphere in Damascus restaurants. The food is minced meat wrapped in light pastry or pita, shish kebabs, felafel, and hummus. |
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