Damascus, Syria
The oasis city of Damascus lies at the base of Mouth Kassion and is adjacent to the arid Syrian desert. Considered by its residents to be the oldest continually habited city in the world, it is the site of several religious stories from transfiguration of Abraham to the enlightenment of Saul into St Paul. The city avoided hosting a government, but instead concentrated on trade, religion and culture and developed relationships with several other ancient cities of the Levant.
In ancient times, the city has been controlled by Babylonians, Persians and Romans who have had a strong influence on the culture and lifestyle of the city. Over these periods, the city prospered and eventually grew to be the principal city of the region, taking away the prominence of rival cities.