The most ancient madrassa is located in a narrow street to the right after the Antakia Gate. It is the "Madrassa
Mokadda-rniah", on whose door is a writing dated 564 of the Hegirah (1168). Among other monuments of this
Medina you will still see, to the right of Souk EI-Attareen, the «Khan EI-Gumrok" or caravanserai of
the customs, an old commercial counter of the 17th century for the French, the English, and the Dutch-and residence
of their consuls.
Almost facing the caravanserai, to the left of Souk EI-Attareen, is the Great Mosque founded early in the 8th century,
under the Omayyads on the site of the old Byzantine Cathedral. Nothing remains of the original edifice which was
destroyed in 1169 and entirely rebuilt by Noureddin, except the minaret, erected in the 11th century under the
Seldjoukides. Inside, of special notice is the "Minbar", or preaching chair. Beside the Great Mosque,
you have the «Madrassa Hala-wiyah" that is none other than the ancient Byzantine Cathedral of Aleppo
which is said to have been built by Saint Helena, the mother of Constantinus the Great. Its carved wood "Mihrab",
a praying niche indicating the direction of Mecca, is a precious relic of the mid 13th century. To the right of
Souk EI-Attareen, almost facing the Great Mosque, an alley leads to Khan En-Nahaseen where Venetians installed
their Fondaco, or "Funduk," i.e their warehouse and hostelry. In front of this venerable monument, used
today for various handicraft activities, is the "Hammam En-Nahassen", one of the oldest Turkish baths
in the city. From souk to souk, you will see the fantastic array of perfumers, shoemakers, spice merchants, rope-makers,
brass and copper engravers, leather craftsmen and felt makers. You will be delighted with all the noise and clutter,
especially when the sunlight breaks through the half shade and makes a glitter. |
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