Syria Facts

by countryaah · Published June 3, 2019 · Updated December 12, 2024

Syria, Middle East State; 185 180 km².Syria borders in the north to Turkey, in the east to Iraq, in the south to Jordan and in the southwest to Israel and Lebanon, and has a coast to the Mediterranean in the west. The Golan Mountains in the southwest have been occupied by Israel since 1967.

Since 2011, civil war has been going on in the country, and in 2017, UNHCR estimated that just over 6 million Syrians were on the run within the country and 5 million were moving abroad, most of them to neighboring countries.

In 2019, the country’s population was estimated at 16.9 million. The country’s latest census dates from 2004 and sets the population to 17.9 million. The capital is Damascus (1.7 million residents, 2010).

Country facts

al-Jumhūriyya al-˙Arabiyya as-Sūriyya / Syrian Arab Republic
Country abbreviation: SY
Area: 185 180 km²
Population (2019): 16.9 million residents (estimated)
Capital: Damascus
Main languages: Arabic
State: Republic
Head of State: Bashar al-Asad (President)
Head of Government: Imad Khamis
GDP per capita: no data available
GNI per capita: no data available
Currency unit: 1 pound = 100 piaster
Currency code: SYP
Country number (telephony): 963
Internet domain name: sew
Time difference compared to Sweden: +1
National Day: April 17 (Independence Day, 1946)
Land use: forest (3%), agricultural land (30%), other (67%)
Highest mountain: Hermon (2,814 m above sea level)
Longest river: Euphrates (2,800 km)

Geography of Syria

Location and Size

Syria is located in the Middle East, on the eastern shores of the Mediterranean Sea. It is bordered by Turkey to the north, Iraq to the east, Jordan to the south, Israel to the southwest, and Lebanon to the west. Syria’s total land area is about 185,180 square kilometers (71,500 square miles), making it the 89th largest country in the world. Despite its relatively small size, Syria holds a strategic position in the region, with its proximity to key geographical and political centers in the Middle East influencing its history and geopolitics.

Topography

Syria’s topography is varied, with plains, mountains, and deserts shaping the country’s landscape. The western part of Syria, along the Mediterranean coast, is characterized by a mountain range known as the Anti-Lebanon Mountains. These mountains are fertile and provide the country with agricultural land and water sources. To the east, the terrain becomes flatter, leading into vast arid plains and the Syrian Desert. The central part of the country is home to fertile regions such as the Euphrates River Valley, which is one of the most important agricultural areas in Syria.

The coastal region, while small in area, is characterized by more moderate temperatures and rich soils that support agriculture, particularly the cultivation of olives, citrus fruits, and vegetables. In contrast, the inland areas, such as the steppe region and the desert, experience much harsher conditions, with extreme temperature fluctuations between summer and winter. The northeastern region, near the border with Turkey and Iraq, is largely dominated by the Euphrates River and its tributaries, which play a critical role in the country’s irrigation and agriculture.

Rivers and Lakes

Syria’s rivers are crucial to its economy and agriculture, with the Euphrates River being the most significant. The Euphrates originates in Turkey, flows through Syria, and continues into Iraq. It is the longest river in the Middle East and one of the most important sources of water for irrigation in Syria. The Khabur River, another key waterway in the northeast, also plays an important role in the country’s agricultural systems.

In addition to rivers, Syria has several lakes, but they are relatively small in size. Lake Assad, an artificial reservoir created by the construction of the Tabqa Dam on the Euphrates, is the largest lake in Syria and provides vital irrigation and power for the region. Syria’s water resources are under significant pressure, and the management of these water systems has been a key issue in the country, particularly due to tensions with neighboring countries over water rights.

Climate

Syria has a Mediterranean climate along its coastal areas, characterized by mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers. The coastal region experiences more moderate temperatures compared to the inland areas, which are much more arid and subject to extreme weather patterns. The central and eastern parts of Syria, including the Syrian Desert and the Euphrates River Valley, have a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and very little rainfall. The northern region, near the Turkish border, has a more temperate climate with cooler winters and occasional snowfall. The lack of consistent rainfall in much of the country has led to ongoing water scarcity issues, particularly in the desert areas and agricultural regions.

Population of Syria

Demographics

Syria has a population of approximately 20 million people as of 2024, although the ongoing civil conflict that began in 2011 has led to a significant displacement of people both within Syria and across international borders. The population is largely concentrated in urban centers, such as Damascus, Aleppo, and Homs, while the rural population is spread across the agricultural and semi-arid regions. The population density is highest along the Mediterranean coast and the Euphrates River Valley, where fertile land supports agriculture.

The civil war has led to a massive humanitarian crisis, with millions of Syrians displaced within the country and millions more seeking refuge in neighboring countries, including Lebanon, Jordan, Turkey, and Iraq. The demographic structure of Syria has been significantly impacted by the war, with large numbers of refugees and displaced persons reducing the country’s total population.

Ethnic Groups

Syria is a diverse country in terms of ethnic composition. The majority of the population is Arab, but there are significant ethnic minorities as well. The largest of these minorities are the Kurds, who primarily reside in the northern regions of Syria, near the Turkish border. Kurds make up around 10-15% of the population and have long sought greater autonomy within Syria. Other minorities include Armenians, Assyrians, Circassians, and Turkmen, who reside mainly in the cities and rural areas.

Syria’s ethnic diversity has historically been a source of tension, with different groups vying for political influence and cultural recognition. The conflict in Syria has exacerbated these divisions, with various ethnic and religious factions playing significant roles in the ongoing violence.

Religion

Syria is a multi-religious country, with Islam being the dominant religion. The majority of Syrians (approximately 87-90%) are Muslim, with the majority being Sunni Muslims. The Sunni population is primarily located in urban centers and rural areas throughout the country. In addition to Sunnis, there are significant communities of Alawites (an offshoot of Shiite Islam), particularly in the coastal region, and Shiite Muslims, who are concentrated in parts of Damascus and the south. The Alawite community has been closely associated with the ruling Assad family, which has contributed to political and sectarian tensions.

Christianity is also an important religion in Syria, with Syrian Orthodox, Greek Orthodox, and Roman Catholic Christians making up about 10% of the population. Christians are found mainly in the western regions of Syria, particularly in and around the cities of Damascus, Homs, and Aleppo. Syria is home to one of the oldest Christian communities in the world, and religious tolerance has traditionally been an important aspect of Syrian society, though the ongoing conflict has affected religious minorities.

Language

Arabic is the official language of Syria, and it is spoken by the vast majority of the population. The Syrian dialect of Arabic, which has some distinctive features, is spoken in everyday conversation, while Modern Standard Arabic is used for formal settings, education, and media. Kurdish is spoken by the Kurdish population in the northern and northeastern regions of Syria, and Syriac, a dialect of Aramaic, is spoken by some Assyrian and Chaldean Christians in specific communities. English and French are also taught in schools, especially in larger urban areas, and are commonly used in business and government.

Economy of Syria

Economic Overview

Syria’s economy has been severely affected by the civil war that began in 2011. Before the conflict, Syria had a mixed economy that included both state-owned and private enterprises. The country’s economy was primarily driven by agriculture, oil, manufacturing, and services. However, the war has caused significant damage to infrastructure, industries, and the workforce, resulting in a steep decline in economic output.

The Syrian economy has suffered from international sanctions, the destruction of key industries, and the loss of key resources, such as oil fields and farmland. The country’s gross domestic product (GDP) has contracted sharply during the conflict, and it faces challenges in rebuilding and restoring its economic stability. Despite these challenges, the Syrian government has focused on efforts to maintain control over key industries and resources, particularly in the regions where it retains power.

Agriculture

Agriculture was once one of the most important sectors of Syria’s economy, with the country producing wheat, barley, cotton, tobacco, and fruits. The fertile regions along the Euphrates River and the Mediterranean coast have been crucial to Syria’s agricultural output. The country also has a significant livestock sector, with sheep, goats, and cattle being raised for meat, milk, and wool.

However, the ongoing conflict has significantly disrupted agricultural production, with many farmers displaced, land destroyed, and irrigation systems damaged. The war has led to reduced agricultural yields and disrupted food distribution, contributing to food insecurity. The destruction of infrastructure, including the loss of access to water resources, has made farming even more difficult in many areas.

Oil and Natural Resources

Syria was once an important oil producer, with oil exports being a key source of revenue for the government. The country’s oil reserves are located primarily in the northeastern region, particularly in the Deir ez-Zor area. Before the war, Syria produced around 400,000 barrels of oil per day, but production has plummeted due to the conflict. Many of the country’s oil fields have either been damaged or are controlled by rebel groups, making oil extraction and distribution difficult.

The loss of oil revenue has been a major blow to the Syrian economy, which has become more dependent on aid from allies like Russia and Iran. Natural gas production has also decreased, and while Syria continues to rely on imports for fuel, the energy sector remains one of the country’s most important sources of potential revenue once stability is restored.

Manufacturing and Trade

Syria’s manufacturing sector includes textiles, food processing, chemicals, and cement. Before the war, Syria was a significant exporter of textiles, particularly cotton-based products, and had a growing industrial base. The destruction of infrastructure and the loss of skilled workers have severely impacted manufacturing output. The conflict has also disrupted trade routes, both domestic and international, affecting Syria’s ability to export goods.

Syria’s trade relationships have been strained by sanctions and the war, with major trading partners such as the European Union and the United States imposing restrictions. As a result, the Syrian government has sought to strengthen economic ties with countries like Iran and Russia, which provide military and economic support to the regime.

Economic Challenges

Syria faces severe economic challenges, with inflation, high unemployment, and a large informal economy. The war has displaced millions of people, many of whom are living in refugee camps or as internally displaced persons. The destruction of infrastructure, including roads, schools, hospitals, and factories, has made rebuilding difficult. Syria’s economic future depends on its ability to stabilize the country, restore agricultural and industrial production, and secure international aid and investment for reconstruction.

Government of Syria

Political Structure

Syria is a republic with a centralized political system, but since 1971, it has been ruled by the Assad family. The current president, Bashar al-Assad, inherited power from his father, Hafez al-Assad, who had ruled Syria since 1970. The political system in Syria is characterized by the dominance of the Ba’ath Party, which has been the ruling party since 1963. The party’s ideology is based on Arab nationalism, socialism, and the centralization of power in the hands of the president.

The Syrian government is highly centralized, with the president holding significant executive power. The legislature, known as the People’s Council, is nominally responsible for lawmaking, but in practice, it operates under the authority of the president and the Ba’ath Party. Political opposition is limited, and the political environment in Syria has been shaped by the state’s control over the media, security forces, and civil society.

Legislative System

Syria’s legislative system consists of a unicameral parliament called the People’s Council, which has 250 members who are elected for a four-year term. However, the elections are widely seen as non-competitive, with the Ba’ath Party and its allies controlling most seats. The legislative body has limited power, as the president and the executive branch dominate the political decision-making process. The parliament’s role is largely symbolic, with most laws and policies being drafted and implemented by the executive.

Judiciary

The Syrian judiciary is nominally independent but has been heavily influenced by the executive branch, particularly under the rule of the Assad family. The country’s legal system is based on a mixture of civil law, Sharia law, and military law, with the courts playing a limited role in protecting individual rights. The highest court in Syria is the Supreme Court of Justice, which is responsible for overseeing legal matters, but many legal decisions are influenced by political considerations. The judicial system has faced criticism for its lack of independence and the use of military courts to try civilians.

Culture of Syria

Art and Architecture

Syria has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its long history as a crossroads of civilizations. Ancient sites such as Palmyra, Mari, and Ugarit testify to Syria’s cultural significance in the ancient world. Syrian art has traditionally been focused on religious and symbolic themes, with Islamic calligraphy, mosaics, and architecture playing a prominent role in the country’s cultural landscape.

Syria’s architectural heritage reflects the fusion of many cultures, from Greco-Roman to Byzantine and Islamic influences. The ancient city of Damascus, one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, features impressive examples of Islamic architecture, such as the Umayyad Mosque, while the ancient city of Aleppo is known for its medieval citadel and historical buildings. Syria’s cultural heritage has been severely impacted by the ongoing war, with many historic sites and museums damaged or destroyed.

Music and Dance

Syrian music has a long history and includes a blend of traditional Arab, Turkish, and Kurdish influences. Music is an essential part of Syrian culture, with genres ranging from classical Arabic music to folk music, which is often performed at weddings and festivals. Traditional instruments like the oud (a type of lute), the qanun (a zither), and the darbuka (a goblet drum) are commonly used in Syrian music. Classical music in Syria is closely tied to the Arab maqam system, which is a complex system of scales and modes that forms the basis of much of the region’s music.

Dance also plays an important role in Syrian culture, particularly folk dances like the dabke, a line dance performed during celebrations and social gatherings. These traditional dances are often accompanied by music and serve as expressions of community and cultural pride.

Cuisine

Syrian cuisine reflects the diverse cultural influences that have shaped the country throughout its history. Traditional dishes include kebabs, hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, and various types of bread, often served with olive oil and herbs. Syrian food is known for its use of spices such as cumin, cinnamon, and sumac, which give dishes a rich, aromatic flavor. Meat, especially lamb and chicken, is commonly used in Syrian cuisine, and vegetables, grains, and legumes form the basis of many traditional dishes.

Syrian cuisine also includes a variety of sweets, such as baklava (a pastry filled with nuts and honey) and knafeh (a dessert made of sweetened cheese and pastry). The food culture in Syria is an important aspect of daily life, with shared meals and traditional recipes passed down through generations.

Festivals and Traditions

Syria’s cultural traditions reflect the country’s diverse religious and ethnic groups. Islamic holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, are celebrated throughout the country with feasts, prayers, and family gatherings. Christian holidays like Christmas and Easter are also widely celebrated, particularly in the Christian communities in cities such as Damascus and Aleppo.

Syria is also known for its cultural festivals, which include music, dance, and traditional performances. The Damascus International Fair, held annually, is one of the largest cultural events in the country, showcasing Syria’s traditional crafts, music, and art. Festivals like these serve as expressions of Syrian culture and resilience, particularly in the face of political and social challenges.

History of Syria

Ancient Syria

Syria’s history dates back to ancient times, with its strategic location at the crossroads of several ancient civilizations. The region was home to the ancient kingdoms of Ugarit, Ebla, and Mari, which were known for their contributions to writing, trade, and diplomacy. Syria’s ancient cities, such as Aleppo and Palmyra, became important centers of culture, commerce, and religion.

The land that is now Syria was later incorporated into the empires of Egypt, Persia, Greece, and Rome. The ancient city of Damascus, founded in the 3rd millennium BCE, became a major trade hub and cultural center, later becoming part of the Roman Empire.

Islamic and Ottoman Period

In the 7th century CE, Syria was incorporated into the Islamic Caliphate under the rule of the Umayyad dynasty, with Damascus becoming the capital of the Caliphate. During this period, Syria became a center of Islamic learning and culture, contributing to the spread of Islam throughout the region.

Following the decline of the Umayyad dynasty, Syria became part of various empires, including the Abbasid Caliphate and the Ottoman Empire. The Ottomans ruled Syria for over 400 years, from the early 16th century until the end of World War I, when the Ottoman Empire collapsed. During the Ottoman period, Syria remained an important cultural and commercial center, but it also experienced social and political challenges.

French Mandate and Independence

After World War I, Syria was placed under French mandate by the League of Nations. The French presence in Syria was met with resistance from various Syrian nationalist groups, culminating in the Great Syrian Revolt of 1925-1927. Following years of political and military struggle, Syria gained independence from France in 1946.

Modern Syria

Syria’s modern history has been shaped by political instability, coups, and the rise of authoritarian rule. In 1970, Hafez al-Assad came to power through a coup and established an authoritarian regime that centralized power within the Alawite minority. Under his leadership, Syria became a key player in regional politics, particularly through its involvement in the Arab-Israeli conflict and its support for Palestinian movements.

In 2000, Hafez al-Assad’s son, Bashar al-Assad, succeeded him as president. Despite initial hopes for political reform, Bashar’s rule saw increasing repression, particularly in response to uprisings and protests. The civil war that began in 2011 has had devastating consequences for Syria, with widespread destruction, loss of life, and the displacement of millions of people.

The conflict has also drawn in international powers, with Russia and Iran supporting the Assad regime and the United States and various regional actors supporting opposition forces. The war has created a complex humanitarian crisis, and Syria continues to face challenges related to rebuilding and achieving political stability.

Recent History

As of 2024, the situation in Syria remains unstable, with ongoing violence in some regions and a fractured political landscape. The Assad government retains control over much of the country, but opposition forces continue to hold areas in the north and east. The ongoing humanitarian crisis, marked by massive displacement and destruction, has made the future of Syria uncertain. Despite efforts at peace talks and international interventions, Syria’s political, social, and economic challenges continue to shape its trajectory in the modern world.