Sunrise and Sunsetin Aleppo, Syria

Aleppo sits on a flat plain in northwestern Syria, with the medieval citadel hill as the only significant elevation. The surrounding open landscape and the old city's roofscape provide clear horizons in most directions.

Best sunrise spots in Aleppo

1. Citadel of Aleppo

   The citadel terrace, 50m above the old city, faces east over the medieval roofscape. The site opens at 9am; arriving at the moat bridge before opening still allows views of the first light spreading across the medina below.

2. Al-Jdeideh Quarter

   Several rooftop terraces in this Ottoman-era Christian quarter face east toward the citadel. A few breakfast cafes here open early and can be accessed without a separate entry fee.

3. Qal'at Simaan

   The 5th-century ruins of the Church of Saint Simeon Stylites sit on a hilltop 30km northwest of Aleppo near the village of Deir Samaan. The elevated position and open eastern horizon make it a clear sunrise viewpoint, reachable by car in about 40 minutes.

4. Bab Qinnasrin

   Aleppo's southern city gate leads to flat, open terrain with an unobstructed view to the east and southeast. The area is accessible on foot from the old city with no entry restrictions.

Best sunset spots in Aleppo

1. Citadel of Aleppo

   From the western ramparts, the view extends flat over modern Aleppo with no tall buildings blocking the horizon. Entry fee applies; the citadel typically closes around dusk.

2. Al-Jdeideh Quarter

   The low-rise buildings of Al-Jdeideh allow unobstructed westward views from roof terraces. Beit Wakil on Sis Street has a well-known rooftop with open western exposure.

3. Bab Antakya

   The Antioch Gate, on the western edge of the old city, opens onto a wide public plaza with a clear view to the west. No entry fee; the gate and surrounding area are freely accessible at all times.

4. Saadallah al-Jabiri Square

   Aleppo's main public square in the modern western city offers open sky in all directions. The surrounding lower buildings leave the western horizon unobstructed.