What is the Arabic name and its romanization for the city of Tell Rifaat?

The Arabic name for Tell Rifaat is تل رفعت, which is romanized as Tall Rifʿat.

In which governorate and country is Tell Rifaat located?

Tell Rifaat is situated in the Aleppo Governorate in northwestern Syria.

What is the approximate distance of Tell Rifaat from the major city of Aleppo?

Tell Rifaat is located approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) north of the city of Aleppo.

What is the administrative designation of Tell Rifaat within its region?

Tell Rifaat serves as the administrative center for the Nahiya Tell Rifaat, which is a subdistrict.

What are the geographical coordinates of Tell Rifaat?

The geographical coordinates for Tell Rifaat are 36°28′24″N 37°05′50″E.

According to the 2004 census, what was the population of Tell Rifaat?

In the 2004 census, Tell Rifaat recorded a population of 20,514 inhabitants.

What is the primary ethnicity of the inhabitants of Tell Rifaat?

The inhabitants of Tell Rifaat are identified as Arabs.

What time zones apply to Tell Rifaat?

Tell Rifaat observes UTC+2 (Eastern European Time or EET) and switches to UTC+3 (Eastern European Summer Time or EEST) during daylight saving time.

What is the assigned geocode for Tell Rifaat?

The geocode assigned to Tell Rifaat is C1621.

Which district and subdistrict does Tell Rifaat belong to within the Aleppo Governorate?

Tell Rifaat is located within the Azaz District and serves as the administrative center for the Tell Rifaat Subdistrict.

Since which historical era has Tell Rifaat been continuously inhabited?

Tell Rifaat has been inhabited since the Iron Age.

What was the name of Tell Rifaat during the Iron Age?

During the Iron Age, Tell Rifaat was known as Arpad.

What ancient Aramean state was centered in Arpad (Tell Rifaat)?

Arpad served as the capital of the north Syrian Aramean state known as Bit Agusi.

Who founded the Aramean state of Bit Agusi, and in which century BCE?

The state of Bit Agusi was established by Gus of Yahan in the 9th century BCE.

What was the geographical extent of the Bit Agusi state?

The territory of Bit Agusi stretched from the A'zaz area in the north down to Hamath in the south.

How did Arpad become associated with the Kingdom of Urartu?

Arpad later became a significant vassal city of the Kingdom of Urartu.

What major conflict involved Arpad in 743 BCE, and what was the outcome?

In 743 BCE, during the Urartu-Assyria War, the Neo-Assyrian king Tiglath-Pileser II besieged and captured Arpad after defeating the Urartuan army.

What role did Arpad serve after its capture by the Neo-Assyrian Empire?

Following its capture by Tiglath-Pileser II, Arpad functioned as a provincial capital.

What physical remnants of ancient Arpad are preserved in Tell Rifaat?

The remains of Arpad's ancient walls are still preserved in Tell Rifaat, reaching a height of up to 8 meters.

Was there a settlement at the Tell Rifaat site during the Seleucid period?

Yes, a settlement existed at the modern-day site of Tell Rifaat during the Seleucid period, which spanned from 301 BCE to 63 BCE.

What archaeological find from the Seleucid period was discovered in Tell Rifaat in 1967?

In 1967, a hoard of coins dating back to the Seleucid period was discovered at Tell Rifaat.

How does Tell Rifaat rank in size among the tells in the Jabal Sem'an region?

Tell Rifaat is the second-largest tell in the Jabal Sem'an region, following Tell Aran.

What significant event occurred in Tell Rifaat in 2012 related to a siege?

In 2012, Tell Rifaat endured a siege by Syrian security forces for approximately seven months, leading to severe shortages of essential supplies for its residents.

Who assumed control of Tell Rifaat after Syrian government forces withdrew in early summer 2012?

Following the withdrawal of Syrian government authorities and fighting with the Free Syrian Army (FSA), a local council composed of Islamic scholars, judges, and former Syrian Army officers took control, governing according to Sharia law.

How did the residents of Tell Rifaat obtain bread supplies after the FSA took control?

Opposition rebels facilitated the transport of flour from Turkey to Tell Rifaat to ensure bread supplies for the population.

What incident involving the Syrian Air Force occurred in Tell Rifaat on August 8, 2012?

On August 8, 2012, the Syrian Air Force conducted airstrikes on Tell Rifaat, resulting in the deaths of six members of the Blaw family.

What was the reported objective of the Syrian Army's actions concerning transport routes to Tell Rifaat?

Opposition activists suggested that the Syrian Army's efforts to cut off transport routes were aimed at disrupting the FSA's supply lines between Tell Rifaat and Aleppo.

Which militant group gained control of Tell Rifaat by November 2013?

By November 2013, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) had taken control of Tell Rifaat after displacing the local Al-Tawhid Brigade.

What shift in control occurred in Tell Rifaat in January 2014 regarding militant groups?

In January 2014, ISIL forces withdrew from the northern Aleppo area, and rebel factions, primarily the Al-Nusra Front and the Islamic Front, subsequently took control of the town.

Which specific brigade of the Islamic Front was in control of Tell Rifaat by January 2015?

By January 2015, Tell Rifaat was under the control of the Conquest Brigade, a component of the Islamic Front.

On what date did the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) capture Tell Rifaat, and what preceded this event?

The Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) captured Tell Rifaat on February 15, 2016, following significant Russian airstrikes that had destroyed all three health facilities in the town.

What was the impact of the February 2016 events on Tell Rifaat's population?

The Russian airstrikes and the subsequent SDF assault led to the displacement of the majority of Tell Rifaat's population, with many fleeing towards rebel-controlled areas or seeking refuge in Turkey.

What role did Tell Rifaat play for the Army of Revolutionaries after the SDF capture?

Following its capture by the SDF, Tell Rifaat became the headquarters for the Army of Revolutionaries.

What action did displaced residents of Tel Rifaat take after Operation Olive Branch concluded?

After Operation Olive Branch, displaced residents of Tel Rifaat gathered in Azaz to advocate for the removal of the SDF from their town.

When did Syrian Republican Guard and Russian Armed Forces enter Tell Rifaat?

The Syrian Republican Guard and Russian Armed Forces entered Tell Rifaat towards the end of March 2018.

What tragic event occurred on December 2, 2019, in Tell Rifaat involving Turkish artillery?

On December 2, 2019, a Turkish artillery attack resulted in the deaths of eight children, all under the age of 15, who were on their way to school.

Which military force took control of Tell Rifaat on December 1, 2024, and what was the operation called?

On December 1, 2024, the Turkish-backed Syrian National Army seized control of Tell Rifaat and its surrounding villages as part of Operation Dawn of Freedom.

What was the reported state of Tell Rifaat in February 2025 for returning residents?

In February 2025, returning residents found Tell Rifaat extensively devastated, with widespread ruins and underground military tunnels that compromised building structures. Homes were stripped of essential utilities, and a concrete wall obstructed access to farmland.

Despite the destruction, what efforts are the residents of Tell Rifaat undertaking?

Despite the challenging conditions and extensive damage, the residents of Tell Rifaat are actively engaged in clearing debris and are committed to rebuilding their lives and the town.

What are the listed nearby localities to Tell Rifaat?

Nearby localities to Tell Rifaat include Azaz to the north, Mare' to the east, Kafr Naya to the south, Deir Jmal and Oqayba to the southwest, and Ibbin Samaan to the west.

What historical period is associated with the discovery of a hoard of coins in Tell Rifaat?

A hoard of coins discovered in Tell Rifaat in 1967 dates back to the Seleucid period.

What was the status of health facilities in Tell Rifaat during the February 2016 capture by the SDF?

During the February 2016 capture by the SDF, all three health facilities in Tell Rifaat were destroyed by Russian airstrikes.

What was the nature of the governance in Tell Rifaat after the Syrian government authorities withdrew in 2012?

After the Syrian government authorities withdrew, Tell Rifaat was governed by a council comprising local Islamic scholars, judges, and former Syrian Army officers, who administered the town based on Sharia law.

Tell Rifaat Wiki: Tell Rifaat: A Chronicle of Syrian Resilience

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Overview

City in Northern Syria

Tell Rifaat is a city situated in the northern Aleppo Governorate of northwestern Syria. It lies approximately 40 kilometers north of Aleppo, serving as the administrative center for the Tell Rifaat Nahiyah. The city's inhabitants are predominantly Arabs.

Historical Significance

The site of Tell Rifaat holds ancient importance, with evidence of habitation dating back to the Iron Age. It was known as Arpad and served as the capital of the Aramean state of Bit Agusi in the 9th century BCE. The area contains remnants of ancient walls, indicating its strategic past.

Contemporary Context

In recent history, Tell Rifaat has been significantly impacted by the Syrian Civil War. It has changed hands multiple times, experiencing periods under the control of various factions, including the Free Syrian Army, ISIS, Syrian Democratic Forces, and Turkish-backed rebel groups. This has led to substantial displacement and destruction.

Geography and Location

Location Details

Tell Rifaat is strategically located in the Aleppo Governorate, approximately 40 kilometers north of the provincial capital, Aleppo. It is the administrative seat of the Tell Rifaat Nahiyah.

Coordinates and Elevation

The city's geographical coordinates are approximately 36°28′24″N 37°05′50″E. Tell Rifaat is situated at an elevation of 457 meters (1,499 feet) above sea level.

Surrounding Areas

The city is surrounded by several other localities, including Azaz to the north, Mare' to the east, Kafr Naya to the south, and Ibbin Samaan to the west, highlighting its position within a network of settlements in northern Syria.

Historical Tapestry

Ancient Origins

Tell Rifaat's history stretches back to the Iron Age, when it was known as Arpad. It rose to prominence as the capital of the Aramean state of Bit Agusi in the 9th century BCE. The city's ancient walls, preserved to a height of 8 meters, attest to its long strategic importance.

Aramean and Assyrian Influence

As the capital of Bit Agusi, Arpad controlled a significant territory. It later became a major vassal city of the Kingdom of Urartu. In 743 BCE, it was besieged and captured by the Neo-Assyrian king Tiglath-Pileser II, subsequently serving as a provincial capital.

A settlement existed on the modern-day site during the Seleucid period (301–63 BCE), evidenced by a coin hoard discovered in 1967. Tell Rifaat is recognized as the largest tell in the Jabal Sem'an region, underscoring its archaeological significance.

Seleucid Period and Beyond

During the Seleucid era, a settlement thrived at Tell Rifaat. Archaeological finds, such as a hoard of coins from this period discovered in 1967, provide tangible links to its past. The site's nature as a large tell signifies continuous occupation and development over millennia.

Impact of the Syrian Civil War

Shifting Control (2012-Present)

Tell Rifaat has been a focal point of conflict during the Syrian Civil War. It was captured by the Free Syrian Army in 2012, then by ISIS in 2014, and later by the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in February 2016, following significant Russian airstrikes that impacted civilian infrastructure.

Devastation and Displacement

The conflict has resulted in severe damage to the city. Reports indicate that Russian airstrikes destroyed health facilities, and subsequent fighting led to widespread displacement of the population. Residents returning in recent years have found homes in ruins and extensive underground tunnel networks.

The town experienced periods of siege and bombardment by Syrian government forces. It has been under the control of various opposition groups, ISIL, and Kurdish-led forces. In December 2024, Turkish-backed Syrian National Army forces took control of Tell Rifaat as part of Operation Dawn of Freedom. The aftermath includes significant destruction, with residents facing challenges in rebuilding amidst compromised infrastructure.

Human Cost

The human toll has been immense, with incidents such as Turkish artillery attacks reportedly killing children. The ongoing instability and destruction have severely impacted the lives and livelihoods of the city's inhabitants, leading to prolonged displacement and arduous reconstruction efforts.

Administrative Structure

Governorate and District

Tell Rifaat is located within the Aleppo Governorate, a major administrative region in northwestern Syria. Specifically, it falls under the jurisdiction of the Azaz District.

Subdistrict Affiliation

The city serves as the administrative center for its own subdistrict, the Tell Rifaat Nahiyah. This highlights its role as a local hub within the broader district and governorate structure.

Tell Rifaat is part of the Azaz District within the Aleppo Governorate. The Azaz District itself is composed of several subdistricts, including Azaz Subdistrict, Akhtarin Subdistrict, Tell Rifaat Subdistrict, Mare' Subdistrict, and Nubl Subdistrict, among others, reflecting a layered administrative organization.

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References

A full list of references for this article are available at the Tell Rifaat Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date. The geopolitical situation in Syria is complex and rapidly evolving; information regarding control and status may change.

This is not professional advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional historical, geographical, or geopolitical consultation. Always refer to official documentation and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Tell Rifaat: A Chronicle of Syrian Resilience

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

📍 City in Northern Syria

🏛️ Historical Significance

⚔️ Contemporary Context

Geography and Location 🗺️

📍 Location Details

🌍 Coordinates and Elevation

⏳ Surrounding Areas

Historical Tapestry ⏳

📜 Ancient Origins

👑 Aramean and Assyrian Influence

🏛️ Seleucid Period and Beyond

Impact of the Syrian Civil War ⚔️

📅 Shifting Control (2012-Present)

💥 Devastation and Displacement

💔 Human Cost

Administrative Structure 📋

🗺️ Governorate and District

🏘️ Subdistrict Affiliation

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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References

📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

City in Northern Syria

Historical Significance

Contemporary Context

Geography and Location

Location Details

Coordinates and Elevation

Surrounding Areas

Historical Tapestry

Ancient Origins

Aramean and Assyrian Influence

Seleucid Period and Beyond

Impact of the Syrian Civil War

Shifting Control (2012-Present)

Devastation and Displacement

Human Cost

Administrative Structure

Governorate and District

Subdistrict Affiliation

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice