Raqqa

The city stretches along the northern bank of the Euphrates River, featuring traditional Syrian architecture mixed with remnants of historical fortifications.

Founded between 244 and 242 BC as Callinicum, Raqqa served as the capital of the Abbasid Caliphate from 796 to 809 under Harun al-Rashid's rule.

The city developed a particular style of blue ceramics during the 12th and 13th centuries, with artifacts now displayed in the local archaeological museum.

The construction of the Tabaqah Dam in 1968 transformed Raqqa into a major agricultural center, supporting extensive cotton cultivation in the surrounding region.

Multiple defensive walls from different periods encircle the city, including the 8th-century fortifications built by Caliph Al-Mansur to protect against Byzantine advances.

Location: Raqqa Subdistrict

Inception: 244

Elevation above the sea: 245 m

Website: http://esyria.sy/eraqqa

GPS coordinates: 35.94968,39.00892

Latest update: May 26, 2025 19:11