Raqqa (Syria) is one of the most beautiful cities in the Middle East. The history of this province is interesting and complex, and therefore requires thorough study. This is one of the cities rich in oil, which today is the center of the Islamic State.
A bit of historical information
The city of Raqqa in Syria, according to some sources, was founded in 244 BC. The first name of the city is Kallinikos. In the Byzantine period, the settlement was renamed the city of Leontopol, but the locals remained adamant and named their monastery in honor of the founding king. The city received its modern name only in 693, when its territory came under the control of Arab Muslims.
Modern stage
After the Islamic State increased its influence in the Middle East, the territory of the city of Raqqa (Syria) came under the control of representatives of the terrorist organization ISIS. This happened as a result of a fierce battle for the patronage of Er Raqqa. The civil war involved the forces of the Syrian state army and the terrorists of the Islamic State. August 2014, or rather the battle for the key baseTabqa, was the finale of this battle, as a result of which the province of Raqqa (Syria) became controlled by the rebels. Sharia law is established in the city today. The settlement was designated as the capital of the Islamic State.
The situation in the city of Raqqa today
After Sharia law was established in the province of Raqqa, the life of local residents changed dramatically. Any crimes are punished, but especially theft and violation of the laws of Islam. For theft, a hand is cut off, and for violation of religious dogmas, residents will answer with their heads in the truest sense of the word.
The rules for the residence of women have been tightened. All representatives of the weaker sex must wear a black veil, and for violation of this rule there will be the most terrible consequences, including public censure. Christian churches are completely destroyed to the last stone and burned to the ground, and the persecution and execution of non-believers is also carried out. The sale of alcoholic beverages and cigarettes is completely banned.
Friday Mosque - the main attraction of the city of Raqqa
One of the most revered sights in this region is the Grand Mosque, located in the city of Raqqa (Syria). This architectural structure was erected in the distant VIII century during the reign of Caliph Al-Mansur. Due to constant battles and battles, the original appearance of the mosque could not be preserved. In the past, this religious building had 11 towers, which were located on the periphery. Today, only one tower remains, the height of which is 25 meters. Besides,an inscription has survived, testifying to the invaluable contribution to the restoration of the Nur al-Din mosque. The courtyard of the Grand Mosque is a unique confirmation of Arabic architecture.
Qasr al-Banat, an architectural masterpiece of the 12th century
Raqqa (Syria) is one of the most ancient cities in the Middle East. That is why a large number of historical monuments are concentrated here, including the Maiden's Palace. Today, Qasr al-Banat is the ruins of a former residence. People who saw them express enthusiastic words about this architectural structure. Numerous researchers who have repeatedly excavated in the city came to the unanimous opinion that the style of construction resembles buildings erected in Iran. The open rooms adjoin vaulted ceilings. At the present stage, attempts have been repeatedly made to restore the Maiden's Palace to its original state, so the territory is fenced.
Baghdad Gate - evidence of the past
No less popular among researchers are the famous Baghdad Gate, or rather their remains, located in the city of Raqqa (Syria). According to the data obtained by archaeologists during excavations and research, the construction of the gate took place in the 12th century. This piece of cultural and historical heritage is distinguished by a unique style. The Mesopathamian style is distinguished by the peculiar decorative brickwork and vaulted arches that can be seen inthe top of the stone gate.
The Baghdad Gate is located in the southeast of the capital of the Islamic State. Access to the sights is open to all comers, but in recent years visiting these ruins by foreigners is highly discouraged for the sake of he alth and safety.
Summing up, we can conclude that the province of Raqqa with the city of the same name is an object of cultural and historical heritage. However, today the city, like all the sights located in it, is under threat, which is called the Islamic State in the modern world.
