Mansouriya Palace hotel

Aleppo is the oldest continuously inhabited city in the world, competing for this title only with Damascus.  Wandering these ancient streets, marvelling at the world’s largest citadel, part of the city’s UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site, and absorbing the melting pot of cultures, you feel as if you are the first to discover this magnificent city after over 6,000 years of existence - Aleppo was 2,500 years old when Rome was built in 750 B.C. to put it in context.

Within the largest souk in the Middle East, traders are more concerned with purveying their traditional goods to the locals rather than creating a tourist attraction full of surplus junk.

The smell of naturally made soap from olive oil and laurel, the dazzling local jewellery and rich textiles that are their life-blood, all penetrate the senses as you explore the 16km labyrinth.

Beyond the city walls lie a plethora of ancient ruins which are not only important historically, but are incredible experiences for all ages of visitor. Marvelling at these fascinating sites and touring the mesmerising scenery is a pure joy.