Ar Raqqah, Syria
Region: Ar Raqqah
Geographic Coordinates: 35.950000, 39.010000
Temperature Range: 15.0°C to 40.0°C (59°F to 104°F)
Climate: Dry and hot summers, mild winters with occasional rainfall.
Population: 299824
Language: Arabic
Ar Raqqah, Also known as Raqqa, Is a city located in northern Syria on the banks of the Euphrates River. It is the capital of the Ar Raqqah Governorate and was once considered to be one of the most important cities in Syria due to its strategic location along trade routes. The history of Ar Raqqah dates back to ancient times when it was known as Nikephorion and served as a military base for Roman troops. Later, It became an important center for Islamic culture and education during the Abbasid Caliphate.
The city’s rich history can be seen in its many archaeological sites and historical landmarks such as the Raqqa Museum. In recent years, However, Ar Raqqah has become known for being a stronghold of ISIS (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria). In 2014, ISIS declared Ar Raqqah to be their capital and used it as a base from which they launched attacks throughout Syria and Iraq. During this time, Life in Ar Raqqah became extremely difficult with strict laws imposed by ISIS including dress codes for women, Bans on music and smoking, Public executions and floggings.
In October 2017, The city fell to Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF). This marked a major victory against ISIS who had controlled much of northern Syria since 2014. Despite this victory against terrorism, The city still faces many challenges including rebuilding infrastructure destroyed during battles with ISIS, Massive displacement due to conflict, And lack basic services like clean water supply or electricity. The ongoing Syrian Civil War has also left many people without homes or jobs making daily life difficult. However, The people living there are resilient.
They have set up committees responsible for cleaning streets, Painting buildings, And providing basic services like water supply. In addition, International organizations such as UNICEF have stepped up efforts to provide humanitarian aid to the city. Despite its troubled past, Ar Raqqah still remains an important cultural and historical center in Syria. Its strategic location along the Euphrates River makes it a hub for trade and commerce, While its rich history provides a glimpse into Syria’s ancient past.
With continued efforts towards rebuilding and development, There is hope that Ar Raqqah will once again become a thriving city where people can live in peace.’
- Al-Raqqa Castle: A historic castle built during the Abbasid era.
- Raqqa Museum: A museum that showcases the history and culture of Raqqa.
- Al-Furat Dam: A large dam located on the Euphrates River.
- Al-Mansur Mosque: A beautiful mosque built during the Abbasid era.
- Qal’at Ja’bar: An ancient fortress located near Raqqa.
- Tell Ain Shams: An archaeological site that dates back to 3000 BC.
- Tell Sabi Abyad: Another archaeological site that dates back to 4000 BC.
- The Great Mosque of Raqqa (destroyed in 2017): One of the oldest and largest mosques in Syria with a rich history dating back to the Umayyad period.
Note: Due to ongoing conflict and instability, it is not advisable for tourists to visit Ar Raqqah at this time.
- Agriculture: Ar Raqqah was renowned for its fertile land and agricultural production of wheat, barley, cotton, and vegetables.
- Oil and Gas: The city is located near various oil fields that were once a significant revenue source for the Syrian government.
- Textile Industry: There were several textile factories in Ar Raqqah that produced clothing and fabrics.
- Construction: Due to its strategic location on the Euphrates River, the city had a growing construction industry before the conflict.
- Retail Trade: Ar Raqqah had several markets where locals could purchase food, clothing, electronics, and other goods.
However, since 2013 when ISIS took control of the city until 2017 when it was liberated by Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), most industries have been destroyed or severely damaged by war activities in this region.
- The ancient city of Ar Raqqah was established in the 3rd century BC by Seleucus I Nicator, one of Alexander the Great’s generals.
- During the Roman period, Ar Raqqah played an essential role as a military center and served as a base for various campaigns against Persia.
- In 639 AD, Muslim forces led by Khalid ibn al-Walid conquered Ar Raqqah during the Arab-Byzantine Wars.
- During the Abbasid era (750-1258), Ar Raqqah became a significant center for Islamic scholarship and culture.
- In 1260, Mongol forces led by Hulagu Khan sacked Ar Raqqah during their campaign to conquer Baghdad.
- During World War I, Ar Raqqah played an important role in defending the Ottoman Empire against Allied forces.
- In recent years, ISIS (Islamic State) declared itself as de facto capital from 2014 until its liberation in 2017 by Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF).
Notable individuals associated with Ar Raqqa:
- Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi – former leader of ISIS who declared himself caliphate in June 2014 from Al-Nuri Mosque in Mosul but died on October 26th, 2019
- Abdullah ibn Masud – one of Prophet Muhammad’s companions who is considered one of Islam’s most learned scholars
- Al-Maʿarri – poet and philosopher who lived during Abbasid era
- Abu Musab al-Zarqawi – founder of Al-Qaeda branch in Iraq which later became ISIS
- Al-Mansur Mosque: The largest and oldest mosque in Ar Raqqah with stunning architecture.
- Raqqa Museum: A museum showcasing artifacts from prehistoric times to the Islamic era.
- Qasr al-Banat Castle: A castle built during the Abbasid period as a residence for women from wealthy families.
- Raqqa Citadel: One of the most significant landmarks in Ar Raqqah used as a fortress since ancient times.
- Al-Furat Dam: A dam on the Euphrates River that provides water and electricity to many parts of Syria.
- Al-Rashid Garden Park: A beautiful park with greenery where you can enjoy nature’s beauty with your family or friends.
- Raqqa Sports City Stadium: If you’re interested in sports, this stadium hosts many games throughout the year.
- Ma’arrat al-Nu’man Mosque: One of the most famous mosques located near Ar Raqqah city that dates back to 1199 AD.
Note – Due to ongoing conflict in Syria, it is advised to check travel advisories before planning any trip or visiting any place mentioned above as they may not be safe at present times due to war situations or political instability etc..
