The Deep History and Heritage of Damascus
Damascus, one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world, possesses a unique charm that springs from its rich history and deep heritage. The markets of Damascus, encompassing a variety of halal trade, form an integral part of this heritage. Embedded in its ancient streets and within the walls of its historic mosques, these markets are not just centers of commerce but also a convergence of cultures and civilizations. The halal markets, with their aromatic spices and colorful fabrics, reflect the community’s commitment to Islamic principles, narrating stories of Damascus’s rich history and cultural diversity.
Islamic Architecture and Spirituality in Damascus
The antiquity of Damascus is also reflected in its mosques and exquisite minarets, which are symbols of architectural beauty and spirituality. These minarets, with their diverse and intricate designs, are not just structural edifices but also testify to the Islamic civilization and its architectural arts. Each minaret tells a story of the era it was built in and the community that lived around it.
The Economy During the Umayyad Era
Damascus experienced significant civilizational developments in various fields such as politics, economy, and culture during the Umayyad era. The political stability that followed the transfer of the caliphate to Damascus greatly influenced the markets and the economic life in the region. The markets of this era played an important role in developing industry and trade, through manufacturing and exporting goods like glass, textiles, and copper.
Economic and Commercial Growth in Syria (1963 – 1970)
Between 1963 and 1970, infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, railways, electricity and water networks, communications, and advanced technologies were constructed. This led to a balance between wage levels and prices, enhancing the purchasing power of citizens.
Damascus witnessed a significant increase in production rates, with the gross domestic product notably rising from 1970 to 1987, and an annual growth rate ranging between 7.5% and 8.5%. The per capita
share of the gross domestic product also saw a substantial increase, and the unemployment rate stood at 4% in 1987, with public institutions employing a majority of the workforce.
Syrian Foreign Trade
By 2010, Syria’s exports amounted to approximately 10.5 billion dollars, with almost half of this figure going to Arab countries and the remainder distributed among the European Union, South Korea, China, and the United States. Imports reached a value of 15 billion dollars, with a significant portion coming from Arab countries and the European Union, as well as other countries. The Syrian imports primarily consisted of technical equipment, heavy industrial machinery, and some raw materials.
Damascus is not just a city; it embodies a living history and a rich culture. Its halal markets, mosques, and minarets tell stories of its past, while simultaneously offering a glimpse into its bright future.
