Wednesdays 10:00PM ET
Syria
The ancient empire of Syria was once a massive kingdom that included the territories of Lebanon, Israel, the West Bank, Gaza Strip and parts of Jordan. Long held as the "cradle of civilization," Syria is home to the Euphrates Valley, where the oldest civilizations in the world can be traced to, along with their languages, cultural beliefs and scientific breakthroughs. From an archaeologist's perspective, it is one of the world's most fascinating places. Syria still yields influence over the region. Its long time border disputes with Israel and Turkey keeps Syria embroiled in tension. Its current ruler Bashar al-Assad inherited his position in 2000 from his father, who ruled Syria for 30 years. His reign over the Ba'ath Party has seen a number of modernizing reforms, but he is also considered a restrictive and authoritarian force. Dr. Bob experiences the marvels of Syria's legendary past and the hopefulness of its future when he reunites with an old friend, an Iraqi who had escaped from his homeland with over one million other refugees. Then in Aleppo, Bob shops till he drops in one of the greatest marketplaces in the Middle East.
Currency: Syrian Pound (SYP), US $1 equals 52.10700 SYP
Location: Damascus
- Syria's bustling capital city is believed to be the oldest continually inhabited city in the world, with a history that starts somewhere between 8,000 and 10,000 BC.
- Today, it's home to over 4 million and is a remarkable study in contrasts, with modern luxury rubbing up against ancient monuments.
- The narrow twisting lanes and hidden alleys of the Old City are lined with teahouses, cafes, and souks, along with mysterious doorways that open to courtyards and quaint houses.
- A perfect day takes you through the winding lanes of Damascus, with stops to sample the tea, play backgammon, and puff on flavored tobacco with a hookah pipe.
- Finish up at the top of Mount Qasion for a bird's eye view of the whole city lit up at night.
Location: Aleppo
- Aleppo is Syria's second largest city.
- It's been a trading center since Roman times and still hums with the activity of the marketplace.
- Covered souks and caravansaries deliver a dizzying array of goods - spices, nuts, gold, embroidered fabrics, and inlayed boxes.
Note from the producers: This episode takes an in-depth look at an Iraqi refugee family. Qais and his family currently remain in Syria to date and like many of the estimated 1.5 million Iraqi refugees living in Syria he has been unable to find employment.
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