Aleppo has been continuously inhabited since perhaps the 6th millennium BC. The city owed its longevity to its location on the old Silk Road, though recently - since the inauguration of the Suez Canal in 1869 - Aleppo has fallen from its preeminent height as East-West trade has largely bypassed it.
The Syrian Civil War of 2011 precipitated the devastating Battle of Aleppo (2012), which has caused such terrible destruction to this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once proud, ornate buildings have gone the way of time in the blink of an eye.
During the war, the Syrian army used countless barrel bombs and dropped them onto the city from helicopters. These actions have caused thousands of tragic deaths and great waves of evacuations. The conflict's ripples are being felt all over the Middle East, and even Europe.
These images show that Aleppo was once a pleasant and flourishing city. One moved former visitor, when seeing this image, wrote of "one of the friendliest cities I've ever visited. Now, it's an unbelievable tragedy."
I find these images so powerfully touching; provoking grief, pity and even a sense of anger at how such beauty has been overturned in an instant. As one viewer has expressed it: "I never thought I would cry over a building, but this image just has me in tears."
Aleppo's buildings, streets, pavilions and piazzas took many long years to build, and it will take just as many to have them rebuilt once again. However, there is no way that the lives of the civilians can ever be rebuilt.
Life in Turkey’s Istanbul is Pretty Special – 15 Pictures
Istanbul in Turkey is a city of many wonderful contrasts as you will see in these striking pictures.
These People Undoubtedly Have Talent by the Boatload
There's so much talent in the world that it's occasionally hard to fathom. Nevertheless, here are 20 photos that show just how talented people really are.
These Photos Show How Our World Is Just Full of Surprises!
We are blessed to inhabit this Earth - think of all the beautiful things that you've seen! Here are 21 photos to prove that the world is full of surprises.
This National Geographic Contest Winners are Spectacular
National Geographic is synonymous with outstanding photography, and its awards are no exception. Take a look at the best National Geographic photos of 2018.
These Award-Winning Photos Are Simply Unforgettable
The Siena International Photos Awards are a really big deal - no less than 48,000 submissions were submitted this year! Here are 20 of the very best.
These Photos Will Remind You of the True Power of Nature
Modern man thinks he is the master of his world, but nothing could be further from the truth. These photos serve as poignant reminders of the power of nature.
What People Need When the End Is Nigh: A Profound Talk
BJ Miller is a palliative care physician with some amazing insights. Discussing what happens to our thoughts as we pass away, he shares some profound thoughts.
20th Century: The MOST Popular Breakfast of Every Decade
Breakfast shape-shifted quite a bit during the 20th century. Discover the most popular breakfast delicacy of every decade in this article
These Photos Prove How Strange of a Country South Korea Is
The following images illustrate how strange of a place Korea is.
This Brilliant Talk Taught Me to Let Go of My Delusions
Isaac Lidksy has had quite an amazing life of success, which he puts down to a stunning realization that blindness gave him. Watch. You won't be disappointed.
11 Surprising Things You Never Knew About the Titanic
We bet you didn’t know these surprising facts about the Titanic!
17 Extremely Dangerous Foods That Could Kill You!
From toxic fish, to monkey brains, you'll be surprised at what some people would risk just for a taste of these dangerous "delicacies".
News That Inspires: Positive Stories From Around the World
There are so many good things happening in the world. Here’s a look at some of the most inspiring news updates to brighten your day.
Can You Guess the English Word With Over 600 Meanings?
The English language has been around for so many centuries, it has gathered quite an elusive and industrious history, as seen in these facts
I Just Wanted to Remind You: You're the BEST!
Do you know someone who ought to be given some appreciation? Make their day today by congratulating them with a sweet compliment!
Watch These Old Historical Photos Come Magically to Life
Russian animator Alexey Zakharov has managed to achieve something amazing: he animates old photos and turns them into film. You've got to see this.
18 Films That Remind Us How Brutal Winter Can Be
Winter isn’t as cozy as you might think. These cold-weather survival movies will make you long for summer days.
Watch This Couple Go Through 60 Years of Aging...
This young couple found out with some magical help from talented makeup artists. The results are remarkable, and the ending filled my eyes with tears.
8 Essential Greek Philosophy Books You Shouldn't Miss
Here is your best chance for understanding Greek philosophy and its history.
These Amazing Illusions Are Enough to Make Your Head Spin
Optical illusions have the potential to highlight how the human mind plays tricks when it comes to perceiving things. Take a look at these 20 optical illusions.
This Is One of The Most Beautiful Duets I've Ever Seen
Watch this mesmerizing duet from 1981 featuring Donovan and Crystal Gayle. This live performance is their rendition of the classic 60s song ‘Catch the Wind’
These 11 Alcoholic Drinks Have a Fascinating History!
In this article, we’ll tell you about the truly fascinating origins of 11 time-honored cocktails!
You Won’t Find Maps Like These in Geography Textbooks!
Explore this collection of 20 new and updated maps on a variety of fascinating subjects!
All Coffee Drinkers Should Know These 17 Facts
A lot of adults drink at least one cup of coffee each day, but very few actually know these facts about coffee.
Check Your Pockets Now! This Quarter Is Worth Thousands!
There's a quarter out there that is worth thousands of dollars. Here's what you need to look out for.
These Old Photos Show a Fascinating Side of History
Each one of these remarkable photos tells a story of bygone history. See how much the world has changed with scenes of both famous faces, events and everyday moments.
This Project Gets Thousands of Disabled Children Mobile Again
This project may give thousands of physically impaired children the ability to move around again.
These Naval Battles Changed the Course of History
History has been witness to some momentous naval battles. Here is a look at some of the greatest.
7 of History's Most Outrageous Con Artists
Fan of true crime? Today we will learn the stories of 7 of history's most notorious con artists.
Mark Twain Really Had a Way With Words
These great quotes from Mark Twain are all-time classics, and worth remembering.
Life Has Changed a Lot Since These Photos Were Taken
These historic photos capture the everyday experiences of the last century, reminding us how much the ordinary things in life have changed.
See How the Egyptians Actually Built the Pyramids
While we marvel at the great pyramids, we know little about how they were actually constructed. This video sheds some light into that.
13 Commercials So Brilliant That You Have to Applaud
Most adverts are so predictable that anyone can see them coming, but these commercials are utterly ingenious!
The Fascinating Ways Our Fruits and Veggies Are Grown...
Here are some of the amazing the ways that fruits and veggies grow that may be new to you!
This Ancient Cabinet is FULL of Surprises...
One of the finest achievements of European furniture making!
WATCH: The Incredible Kindness of Strangers Is Wonderful
Strangers can be incredibly compassionate, and this is just as true when helping out an animal in distress. Watch this heart-warming video.
9 Facts About Ancient Egypt You Probably Didn’t Know
Venture beyond the usual facts about the pyramids and Tutankhamen and learn 9 equally fascinating facts and misconceptions about Ancient Egypt
From Across the Decades, These Photos are Fascinating!
Join us as we take you through the ages and see some really incredible sights!
These Victorian Era Facts Are Instantly Fascinating
An era of 74 Years in English history, the Victorian era is one of the most interesting periods in history.
Listen to 7 of History's Most Famous Speeches
This article brings you the words of 7 of the most famous and impassioned speeches in history.
This Is What $300,000 Will Buy In 15 Different Countries
If you dream of living overseas, you should know your dream is more attainable than you think. This is what $300,000 would buy you in 15 different countries.
This Man Has Taken Refuge in an Airport for 19 Years
Meet Denis Luiz de Souza, a man who, because of unfortunate circumstances, has been living in an airport for about two decades.
I Just Wanted to Say: Have a MERRY CHRISTMAS!
Choose from our lovely selection of greeting cards and share your deepest wishes with your friends and family, to celebrate this blessed time of the year!
These Tips Will Help You Start Reading Again
Reading skills not as strong as they were in the days of yore? Here are my tried-and-true tips to help you get back on the reading horse.
13 Books That Will Make Your Time Fly
These times of social distancing are perfect for catching up on your reading. Check out this list of 13 must reads to get started.
Collection: The Greatest Moments in History
A collection of fascinating, sometimes controversial and surprising stories from the annals of history. Explore and learn about the fascinating past of humanity and some of its most outstanding figures.
10 Questions You Always Wanted the Answer To
Let's dive into ten questions you've always wanted to ask and uncover the intriguing science behind everyday phenomena.