30 Facts About Homs

Historical Significance of Homs

Homs, known as Emesa in ancient times, has a rich history that spans several millennia. Its strategic location and cultural importance have made it a focal point for various civilizations.

1. Homs emerged in the historical record in the 1st century BC during the Seleucid Empire, becoming the capital of the Emesene dynasty.
2. The city was initially a center of worship for El-Gabal, a pagan idol linked to the sun.
3. Under Byzantine rule, Homs gained importance in Christianity, attracting both pagans and Christians due to its strategic location.
4. In the 7th century, Homs was conquered by Muslims and became the capital of a district bearing its current name.
5. The Abbasid Caliphate took control of Homs in 750, but their rule was generally unwelcome by the local population.
6. In 855, the Christian population revolted against additional taxation under Caliph al-Mutawakkil, leading to their expulsion and the destruction of their churches.
7. Byzantine raids in the 10th century, led by Nikephoros II Phokas, resulted in the slaughter and plunder of Homs' inhabitants.
8. The Mirdasids of the Banu Kilab tribe ruled Homs for most of the 11th century, aligning with the Isma'ili Shi'i Fatimid Caliphate of Egypt.
9. In 1090, the Saljuqid Turks occupied Homs under Aq Sunqur al-Hajib, marking a significant shift in governance.
10. During the First Crusade, Crusaders besieged Homs but failed to capture it, leaving it under the control of the Saljuqid ruler of Damascus, Duqaq.

Strategic Importance and Conflicts

Homs has always been a strategic stronghold, playing a crucial role in various military campaigns and conflicts throughout history.

11. Homs became a key location for Muslims to launch raids against Crusader holdings along the Mediterranean coast.
12. A series of earthquakes in 1157 heavily damaged Homs and its fortress, but the city was quickly restored due to its strategic importance.
13. Nur al-Din awarded Homs to Asad ad-Din Shirkuh in 1164, and his descendants retained control until 1262.
14. The First Battle of Homs between the Mongols and the Mamluks occurred on December 10, 1260, ending in a decisive Mamluk victory.
15. Before the Syrian war, Homs was a major industrial center with a population of at least 652,609 people in 2004, making it Syria's third-largest city.
16. Homs reflects Syria's general religious diversity, with a population composed mostly of Sunni Muslims, Alawites, and Christians.
17. The city is home to several historic mosques and churches, including the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque, consecrated between 1908-1913.

Modern History and Cultural Significance

Homs has undergone significant changes in modern times, from French rule to its role in the Syrian civil war.

18. In 1918, Homs was captured by the 5th Cavalry Division of the Allied forces and later became part of the French Mandate of Syria.
19. The Homs Museum, established in 1922, showcases the city's rich history and cultural heritage.
20. In 1925, Homs joined Damascus and southern Druze chieftains in a revolt against French rule.
21. Two sports clubs, Al-Karamah SC and Al-Wathba SC, were formed in 1928 and 1937, respectively, promoting sports and community activities.
22. The French moved their military academy from Damascus to Homs in 1932, establishing it as the only military academy in Syria until 1967.
23. During the Syrian civil war, much of Homs was devastated due to the Siege of Homs, leading to significant reconstruction efforts.
24. Homs is close to the Krak des Chevaliers castle, a world heritage site, adding to its cultural significance.

Economic and Humanitarian Aspects

The city's economy and humanitarian situation have been deeply affected by recent conflicts, but efforts are underway to rebuild and restore Homs.

25. Before the Syrian war, Homs was a major industrial center, with a booming cotton industry in the 19th century.
26. The Syrian civil war caused a severe humanitarian crisis in Homs, leading to significant displacement of its population.
27. Reconstruction efforts are underway to restore damaged infrastructure, historic sites, and promote economic activities.
28. Homs has received international recognition for its resilience and cultural significance, featuring in various media outlets.
29. The community in Homs has shown remarkable resilience, with residents supporting each other and local organizations providing aid.
30. As reconstruction continues, Homs looks forward to a brighter future, aiming to regain its status as a major industrial and cultural center in Syria.

Homs: A City of Resilience and Rich History

Homs stands as a testament to resilience and rich history. From its early days as Emesa, a center of pagan worship, to its significance in Christianity and later Islamic rule, the city has always been a strategic and cultural hub. Despite facing numerous challenges, including Byzantine raids, earthquakes, and the devastation of the Syrian civil war, Homs has shown remarkable strength. Its diverse population, historic mosques and churches, and significant landmarks like the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque and the Homs Museum highlight its cultural importance. Reconstruction efforts are underway, aiming to restore the city's economic and cultural vitality. With its strategic location, rich heritage, and resilient community, Homs is poised to reclaim its status as a major industrial and cultural center in Syria. The city's future looks promising, ready to embrace new opportunities while honoring its storied past.