Believed to be one of the oldest fortified sites in the world, the Citadel of Aleppo in Syria has seen continuous use for over 5,000 years. The structure we see today took form during the 12th century under the Ayyubid dynasty, but archaeological evidence reveals layers dating back to the 3rd millennium BC.
Positioned atop a hill in the center of Aleppo, this fortress served as a stronghold for multiple civilizations, from the Greeks to the Ottomans. Despite damage during recent conflicts, the Citadel remains a powerful testament to ancient defensive architecture.
These cafes are the heart of Parisian life—places where locals gather for leisurely breakfasts, tourists unwind after a day of sightseeing, and artists and writers find inspiration.