As the Syrian army overruns Eastern Aleppo leading to a negotiated evacuation of rebels and their civilian supporters, we reflect on the destruction that has befallen this once beautiful Syrian city.
Over 30,000 people are reported to have died since fighting began in the city in 2012, and another 20,000 are thought to have been displaced from Syria’s biggest city. Once a popular tourist destination, and famed for its spectacular white marble, Aleppo now lies in ruins. Much of the city’s ancient heritage has been damaged, including the Great Mosque, which was built in the 8th century, and the citadel of Aleppo, considered to be one of the largest and oldest castles in the world.
These breathtaking pictures show the damage that has been done to the city.
Below are before and after shots of various sites in the city: