The self-proclaimed "indispensible companion for any serious traveller in Syria" is widely regarded as the most comprehensive archaeological field guide to the country. Ross Burns’ authoritative survey provides an exhaustive inventory of Syria's architectural riches, drawing on years of meticulous research while serving as the Australian ambassador to Syria. The book has detailed plans, historical context, and site descriptions that bring the layers of Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic history to life. In Damascus, the narrative guides the reader through the labyrinthine alleyways of the old city to the monumental gates of the Umayyad Mosque, documenting the evolution of Syrian craftsmanship over millennia.
Much architectural heritage in Syria has been heavily affected by the conflict, and even now there are frequent stories of sites being destroyed by plunderers. The author has notes about 2011 on his dedicated website, www.monumentsofsyria.com.

'The Monuments of Syria' (2009, ISBN 9781860642449) by Ross Burns can be purchased online for around £25/$32 at www.bloomsbury.com and from other international booksellers. We have spotted the 1999 edition of the book for sale at Hassan's Shop in Damascus and at the entrance of Palmyra for around the same price.
 

Bradt Travel Guide to Syria

Long considered the gold standard for independent travellers, Diana Darke’s guide offers a deeply researched and sympathetic immersion in Syrian life that goes far beyond the usual practicalities. Drawing on her extensive experience as a former diplomat and Arabic consultant, Darke provides exceptionally detailed, on-the-ground descriptions of the country’s monumental heritage, from the Roman splendour of Palmyra to the Crusader majesty of Krak des Chevaliers. Local anecdotes, literary snippets, and a sophisticated understanding of the social and religious nuances that define the region enrich the narrative. The most recent edition dates from 2010, just before the Syrian conflict started, but despite many listings being out of date, the general texts are well worth reading, and it remains the best country guide available. 

'Bradt Syria' (2010, ISBN 9781841623146) by Diana Darke is sadly no longer available on the publisher's website, www.bradtguides.com, but you'll find it sold for around $22 at the usual online shops. In Damascus, the Rosa Damascene Guesthouse is known to have a few copies for sale; contact them for details.