Over eight centuries old, the Bimaristan Nur al-Din, is the earliest surviving site for the development of Islamic medicine. Throughout the building's lifetime, the site has functioned as a medical school as well as a place of healing in the heart of the old city of Damascus. Built in 1154, the building is characterized by its red brick muqarnas, elaborate entrance block, and finely carved wooden doors. The hospital was in use until the 20th century when it was converted into a Museum of Arabic Medicine and Science. The preservation of the building is a reminder of the major contributions of Islamic medicine to the world today.