Aleppo, Syria

Aleppo's Citadel is an enormous fortress, considered the oldest and best in Syria. The current structure dates from around the 13th century, when it was used by Saladin's son, and it contains two mosques.

This Umayyad mosque was founded just 10 years after its more famous counterpart in Damascus. Recently restored to gleaming beauty, it is notable for its geometric courtyard paving and shrine of Zechar.

Built in 1873, this church has two pointed towers and a high dome. The Maronites are Eastern Catholics in full communion with the Pope, with a liturgy in Syriac.