📜 Massive fortified palace in Aleppo, Syria, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1986. 🔍 Dates back to the 3rd millennium BC, with structures from Ayyubid and Ottoman periods, representing a densely layered microcosm of over four millennia of Near Eastern history. # Why Go 🏰 Explore one of the world's oldest and largest castles ⚔️ Discover a rich history spanning millennia, from Greeks, Byzantines, Ayyubids, Mamluks, and Ottomans 🏛️ Admire medieval Islamic fortress architecture, royal palace complex, mosques, and ancient temples 🌳 Enjoy panoramic views from the 50-meter high hill 🚶 Walk across a magnificent entry bridge and around a deep moat # Why Avoid ⚠️ Suffered considerable damage during the Battle of Aleppo and subsequent earthquake; ongoing repairs and restoration work may affect access. # Tips 💡 Re-opened in 2017, but restoration work continues. 💡 Features underground tunnels connecting towers and the Old City. 🎭 Modern amphitheater built in 1980 hosts concerts and theater performances.