Syria is a strategically important location on the cusp of three continents: Asia, Africa and Europe. It has coastline on the Caspian Sea, Black Sea, Indian Ocean and the Nile. It's on the Silk Route which linked China with Asia and Europe. This makes Syria not only a junction for goods but also a crossing point of beliefs and ideas. It's the place where Christianity grew in its infancy and it contains the world's oldest church. Damascus became the capital of the Califate when Islam came to dominate Syria,  and it is this capital which forms the starting point of many holidays in Syria. Nonetheless, the Euphrates river valley and Antilebanon mountains and plateaus are memorable, impressive destinations. Malev flies to Damascus, the capital city

The land of prophecy

The prophet Mohammed found Damascus the most exceptionally beautiful place. After the long journey, the cyprus and palm trees, bustling bazaar, towers and buildings of this oasis city would have looked especially fine. St Paul's revelatory Road to Damascus led to one of the world's oldest continuous settlements, having been populated for at least 6000 years. The place had been recognised as a city since 2500 BC, whilst the Pharoah Thotmes III gave the name Damascus to this thriving city. Reserve special offer flights on Malev's Budapest-Damascus route

Damascus, gateway between East and West

Damascus draws visitors from around the world, many to be found in the Old Town, looking around the bazaar or many ancient buildings. The Omajad Mosque is considered the jewel of the city, with the first construction elements dating from 705 AD. Alexander the Great was just one of many who have left their mark on the city in the times prior to Islam, along with the Romans and Egyptians. The city has a number of the original gates - not only for defence, but to check travellers in Roman times. The Citadel of Damascus still stands as a testament to the strategic importance placed on holding Damascus, with many ramparts and defences having been built by different occupants over thousands of years. The Bab Tuma district (or St Thomas' Gate) is in itself the oldest known city in the world. Click here to find out the prices of flights to Syria.