Country | Syrian Arab Republic |
Population | 22 |
Area | 35 km2 (14 sq mi) |
Time Zone | UTC+2 (EET) |
Coordinates | 35.95283, 39.00788 |
Highest elevation | 245 m (804 ft) |
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City Description
Ar Raqqah, often referred to simply as Raqqa, is a historically significant city situated on the left bank of the Euphrates River in northern Syria. Approximately 160 kilometers east of Aleppo and 40 kilometers east of the Tabqa Dam, Raqqa has a population of 531,952 as of the 2021 census, making it the sixth-largest city in Syria. The city’s strategic location has made it a crucial urban center throughout various historical periods.
Historically known as Callinicum, Raqqa was an important city during the Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine periods. Its significance peaked during the Abbasid Caliphate when it became the capital under the reign of Harun al-Rashid from 796 to 809. This era marked Raqqa as a center of cultural and political activity.
Geographically, Raqqa is located in a fertile area along the Euphrates River, which has historically supported agriculture and trade. The city experiences a semi-arid climate, with hot summers and mild winters, which is typical of the region.
Culturally, Raqqa has a rich heritage, although much of it has been affected by recent conflicts. During the Syrian Civil War, Raqqa was captured by Syrian opposition forces in 2013 and later by ISIS in 2014, becoming the de facto capital of the Islamic State. This period was marked by significant destruction, including the demolition of many non-Sunni religious structures, such as the Shia Uwais al-Qarni Mosque. The city was liberated by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) on October 17, 2017, after extensive airstrikes and battles that left much of Raqqa in ruins.
Raqqa’s economy has traditionally been based on agriculture, leveraging the fertile plains surrounding the city. However, the prolonged conflict severely disrupted economic activities. The post-ISIS era has seen efforts to rebuild and revitalize the city’s infrastructure and economy, although challenges remain significant.
In terms of human resources, Raqqa is home to a diverse population that has faced significant hardships due to the conflict. Efforts are ongoing to rebuild community structures and provide necessary services to support the population’s recovery and development.
Raqqa’s story is one of historical grandeur, recent devastation, and ongoing recovery. Its location, cultural heritage, and resilient population make it a city of significant interest in the broader narrative of Syria’s past and future.
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