Rakka (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.
Some historical information
The city of Raqqa in Syria, according to some sources, was founded in 244 BC. The first name of the city is Kallinik. In the Byzantine phase, the village 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 passed 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 Raqqah (Syria) came under the control of representatives of the ISIS terrorist organization. This happened as a result of a fierce battle for patronage of Raqqa. The forces of the Syrian state army and the terrorists of the Islamic state took part in the civil war. August 2014, or rather the battle for the key base of Tabka, became the final of this battle, as a result of which the province of Raqqa (Syria) began to be controlled by rebels. Today, Sharia is established in the city. The locality was designated as the capital of the Islamic state.
The situation in Racca today
After Sharia law was enacted in the province of Raqqa , the lives of the locals changed dramatically. Any crimes are punishable, but especially theft and violation of Islamic laws. They cut off a hand for the theft, and residents will answer with their heads in the literal sense of the word for violating religious dogmas.
Stricter rules for women. All the fairer sex should wear a black burqa, and for violating 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, persecutions and executions of Gentiles are also carried out. The sale of alcohol and cigarettes is completely prohibited.
Friday Mosque - the main attraction of the city of Rakka
One of the most revered attractions in this region is the Great Mosque located in the city of Rakka (Syria). This architectural structure was erected in the distant VIII century during the reign of Khalifa 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 there is only one tower, whose height is 25 meters. In addition, the inscription 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 Arab architecture.
Qasr al-Banat - an architectural masterpiece of the 12th century
Rakka (Syria) is one of the oldest cities in the Middle East. That is why a large number of historical monuments are concentrated here, to which the Maiden Palace can be added. Today, Qasr al-Banat is the ruins of a former residence. People who saw them utter rapturous words about this architectural structure. Numerous researchers who have repeatedly excavated in the city have come to a consensus that the construction style resembles buildings erected in Iran. Open rooms are adjacent to vaulted ceilings. At the present stage, attempts have been repeatedly made to restore the Maiden Palace to its original state, so the territory is fenced.
Baghdad Gate - a testament to the past
The famous Baghdad Gate, or rather their remnants located in the city of Raqqah (Syria), is no less popular by researchers. According to the data that archaeologists obtained during excavations and studies, the construction of the gate took place in the XII century. This piece of cultural and historical heritage is distinguished by a unique style. Mesopatamian style is distinguished by a peculiar decorative brickwork and consolidated arches, which can be seen at the top of the stone gate.
Baghdad Gate is located in the southeast of the capital of the Islamic State. Access to attractions is open to all comers, but in recent years, visiting foreigners of these ruins is highly discouraged in order to ensure health and safety of life.
Summing up, we can conclude that the province of Racca with the city of the same name is an object of cultural and historical heritage. However, today the city, like all the attractions located in it, is under threat, which is called the Islamic state in the modern world.