Straight Street
Dimashq
Straight Street, known locally as Al-Shari' al-Mustaqim, is the historic decumanus maximus of Damascus, Syria, originally constructed during the Seleucid period. Stretching approximately 1,500 meters, it forms the main east-west artery through the old city, exemplifying the classical grid urban design introduced by Hippodamus during the Greek period. The street is divided into two distinct sections: the western half, now called Midhat Pasha Street, which includes the bustling Midhat Pasha Souq, and the eastern half, known as Bab Sharqi Street, leading to the Bab Sharqi gate. Notably, Straight Street holds significant Christian heritage as the location where Paul the Apostle stayed, according to the New Testament's Acts of the Apostles. The Mariamite Cathedral of Damascus, built on this street in the 2nd century and rebuilt multiple times since, serves as the seat of the Antiochian Orthodox Church, underscoring the street's religious and cultural importance. Today, Straight Street remains a vibrant thoroughfare blending ancient Roman urban planning with rich historical and religious narratives, making it a unique attraction for visitors interested in history, archaeology, and spirituality.
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Consejo: Visitors are advised to explore Straight Street in the cooler morning or late afternoon hours to avoid midday heat. Purchasing tickets or entry passes is generally not required, but guided tours can enrich the experience by providing historical context. Visitors should consider exploring both the Midhat Pasha Souq and the Bab Sharqi gate areas to fully appreciate the street's cultural and architectural diversity. Modest dress is recommended when visiting religious sites such as the Mariamite Cathedral. No specific discounts are typically available, but group tours may offer better rates.
Datos interesantes
- •Straight Street is mentioned in the New Testament (Acts 9:11) as the place where Paul the Apostle stayed after his conversion.
- •The street follows the ancient Roman decumanus maximus, the main east-west road typical of Roman city planning.
- •The Mariamite Cathedral, located on Straight Street, is the seat of the Antiochian Orthodox Church and dates back to the 2nd century.
- •The street was originally laid out according to a grid plan by Hippodamus during the Greek period of Damascus.
- •Today, the western half of the street is known as Midhat Pasha Street, featuring the historic Midhat Pasha Souq.
Historia
Straight Street was originally constructed during the Seleucid period as part of the urban redesign of Damascus by Hippodamus, who introduced a grid plan to the city.
It was designed to be the longest street of its time, stretching approximately 1,500 meters.
The Mariamite Cathedral was established on this street in the 2nd century, marking the area's early Christian significance.
Over the centuries, the street has seen various reconstructions and name changes; today, its western half is known as Midhat Pasha Street, while the eastern half leads to the Bab Sharqi gate.
The street's biblical association with Paul the Apostle adds to its historical prominence.
Guía del lugar
Mariamite Cathedral of Damascus2nd century
A historic cathedral originally built in the 2nd century on Straight Street, serving as the seat of the Antiochian Orthodox Church. It has been rebuilt multiple times and is a key religious landmark.
Midhat Pasha Souq
A historic market located on the western half of Straight Street (Midhat Pasha Street), known for its traditional shops and vibrant atmosphere.
Bab Sharqi Gate
An ancient eastern gate of Damascus connected to the eastern half of Straight Street, known as Bab Sharqi Street, serving as a historic entrance to the old city.