PLACES YOU SHOULD VISIT IN SYRIA
PLACES YOU SHOULD VISIT IN SYRIA
Syria is a country with a rich history and culture that’s very misunderstood. It has been going through a conflict for over a decade now. Therefore, people normally assume that it is not possible to visit it. The situation is now relatively stable. From ancient ruins to bustling cities, Syria has something for everyone. Before you question whether or not you should visit Syria, I wrote a detailed post on how to visit it here. In this article, I’ll highlight the places you should visit in Syria in 2024.
Damascus
As the capital of Syria, Damascus is a must-visit destination for travelers to the country. The city is steeped in history and culture. It has a rich architectural heritage that includes ancient Roman ruins, medieval mosques, and elegant Ottoman-era buildings. The Old City is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to some of the most iconic landmarks in Syria, including the Umayyad Mosque and the Damascus Citadel. Visitors can also enjoy wandering through the bustling souks, sipping tea in a traditional café, and sampling delicious Syrian cuisine.
If you have any spare time, make sure to check out one of the art galleries, have some tea at the café located at the Four Seasons. You can also visit the Damascus Commonwealth War Memorial to see the city from a different perspective. For accommodation, make sure to stay at one of the gorgeous classical houses that have been turned into hotels. Most of them are boutique hotels, and you’ll find yourself sitting in beautiful courtyards surrounded by history with personalized service. This can be arranged through the agency you pick.
Ma’loula
Ma’loula is a small town located in the mountains north of Damascus, known for its unique blend of Christian and Muslim culture. It is one of the few places in the world where Aramaic, the language spoken by Jesus Christ, is still spoken today. Visitors can explore the town’s ancient monasteries and churches, including the 5th-century Mar Sarkis Monastery and the 4th-century Mar Takla Monastery, and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
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ALEPPO
Aleppo is Syria’s second-largest city and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history that spans over 8,000 years. The city’s Old City is another UNESCO World Heritage site and is home to a plethora of historic landmarks, including the Citadel of Aleppo, the Great Mosque of Aleppo, and the Aleppo Khan. Visitors can also enjoy shopping in the vibrant souks or simply buy soap from one of the markets. This is where modern soap comes from!
Out of all the tourist cities, this is the one that was affected by the recent earthquake that struck both Syria and Turkey in February, 2023. Personally, I know people who have visited as recently as March 2023. Always ask your agency about the precautions that are being taken for your safety is visiting the northwestern part of the country is a concern for you. Like I mentioned in the post on how to visit, remember that any of the itineraries can be modified according to your wishes.
HOMS
Homs is a city located in central Syria, known for its ancient Roman ruins and picturesque old town. Visitors can explore the ancient city of Emesa. This was once an important center of worship for the god El-Gebal. Here you can marvel at the stunning architecture of the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque. The old town of Homs is also worth a visit, with its narrow alleys, traditional houses, and vibrant street life.
HAMA
Hama is a city located in western Syria, famous for its historic waterwheels or norias, which have been in use for over 1,000 years. Visitors can take a stroll along the banks of the Orontes River, which flows through the city, and marvel at the sight of the norias in action. Hama is also home to several historic mosques, including the 17th-century Al-Nuri Mosque and the 14th-century Al-Ibrahimiyah Mosque.
PALMYRA
Palmyra is an ancient city located in the Syrian desert, known for its stunning Roman ruins and majestic desert landscapes. Visitors can explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Temple of Bel, the Roman theater, and the Monumental Arch, and marvel at the incredible engineering feats of the ancient Romans. Palmyra is also home to several museums and galleries that showcase the city’s rich history and culture.
I did not visit Palmyra, although many people do. The ruins there used to be some of the best in the world of its type. To go to Palmyra, you will need military escort because of the location its in. This will definitely increase your group package prices. The ruins have been mostly destroyed because of the war. Please keep this in mind while looking for prices.
In conclusion, Syria is a country with a wealth of historic and cultural attractions, from ancient ruins to bustling cities. There is something for everyone in Syria. You can explore the country’s rich architectural heritage or savor its delicious cuisine. You can also simply take in its stunning landscapes. Although not on everyone’s list, I would personally recommend a visit to this misunderstood yet beautiful country.