Like a crown of stone adorning the brow of history, and a faithful guardian of the memory of the place since the dawn of civilization, Dura's Old City sits on an ancient Canaanite hill. From its old alleys, its closely embracing houses and its arched passageways rise the stories of thousands of years, as nations came one after another and left their marks on its walls, so that stone mingled with legend and heritage blended with life. Parts of the walls of the Canaanite hill and its stone terraces still surround parts of the city to the northwest, west and southwest, bearing witness to the greatness of the past and the depth of its roots.

In the beating heart of this town, Dura's history comes alive. The Canaanite caves and grottoes that sheltered the first inhabitants were turned over the ages into dwellings and shelters of clay, stone and timber; buildings and houses then rose above them and developed into vaulted rooms, upper chambers and grand mansions, until the town became a great architectural record telling the chapters of the Canaanite, Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, Mamluk and Ottoman civilizations in a rare and unique scene.

The Old City remains the beating heart of Dura and its commercial and cultural artery. Despite the changes of time, it has kept its authentic spirit and deep-rooted identity, and its historic landmarks still stand proudly against the forces of decay, foremost among them the Shrine of Prophet Noah (peace be upon him), the Omari Mosque, the decorated heritage houses, the spacious squares and the beautiful arches that weave a picture of beauty and dignity across its quarters.