Ruled by the Hittites, Assyrians, Arabs, Mongols, Mamelukes and Ottomans, Aleppo was major trading hub along the Silk Route, from the 2nd millennium BCE.
Today, much of the ancient city lies hidden underneath, well away from the reach of archaeologists. A few key historical sites such as The Citadel, the 12th-century Great Mosque, madrasas, residences, and public baths, blend in with the urban sprawl of present day Aleppo.
Recent fighting in Syria has taken a toll on the city, with many of its ancient treasures severely damaged.