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Syria’s postal system has changed over time due to its history of foreign rule. In the 19th century, the Ottoman Empire controlled mail services in the region. After World War I, Syria became a French mandate, and stamps were issued with “Syrie” (French for Syria) on them. When Syria became independent in 1946, it began issuing its own stamps with the country’s name written in Arabic (سوريا) and French (SYRIE). Today, Syrian stamps often feature cultural landmarks, historical events, and national symbols.

Stamps Through the Years

• 1883–1919 – The Ottoman Empire operated the postal service, using Ottoman stamps in Syria.
• 1919–1924 – French Military Occupation: Following World War I, Syria was under French military control. During this time, Syrian stamps were overprinted with "Syrie" (French for Syria) or featured French designs.
• 1934–1946 – Republic Under French Mandate: Stamps continued to reflect French control, often with the word "Syrie" and French inscriptions, but included local themes such as famous landmarks.
• 1942–1946 – Syrian Republic: During this period of partial independence under the French Mandate, Syria issued stamps with both French and Arabic names, symbolising its path to full independence.
• 1958–1961 – United Arab Republic (UAR): Syria briefly joined Egypt in the United Arab Republic, and stamps were issued with both Syrian and Egyptian symbols.
• 1961–Present – Syrian Arab Republic: After Syria left the UAR in 1961, it issued stamps as an independent republic, showcasing national heroes, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks.

Did You Know?

• Syria's early stamps under French rule often included designs of famous ancient sites like Palmyra and Damascus.
• During Ottoman rule, some foreign postal services, including those from France, Britain, and Austria, operated their own post offices in Syria..
• A famous 1925 Syrian stamp series depicted Ba’albek, an ancient Roman temple complex, in stunning detail.
• Syria once used overprinted French stamps until it had its own unique designs.
• Some Syrian stamps feature calligraphy and Arabic script as part of their artistic design, reflecting the country’s deep cultural heritage.

A selection of Syrian stamps.

Issued in 1925 - View of Alexandretta

Issued in 1930 - Mosque.

Issued in 1940 - Aeroplane and Bridge of De Deir-El-Zor, airmail stamp

Issued in 1953 - Crusader Fort

Issued in 1959 - Al Hashimi secondary school in Damascus

Arch of Triumph at Latakia

Issued in 1989 - European Goldfinch (Carduelis carduelis)

Issued in 1989 - European Bee-eater (Merops apiaster)