By Iyad, Syria Travel Specialist at Syria Link · Published Updated
Overview
Syria is well renowned for its intact, breathtaking monuments spread throughout the country and its rich history that dates back to the first century BC. The country is home to the first alphanumeric writing system ever discovered, which was found at Ugarit city on the Syrian coast.
You will be astounded by how Syria continues to embrace both modernistic trends and the glory of the past, despite the brutal war it has endured, and it has become a popular travel destination for people who adore the outdoors, history, and busy cities where the present and past coexist.
There are numerous tourist and archaeological sites in Syria, spread across its different regions. Below, we have listed the six most popular tourist attractions that you should definitely not miss when visiting Syria.
Maaloula — The Aramaic-Speaking Village
Maaloula is a perfect religious tourist attraction for Christians from all over the world, especially since the locals still speak the language of Jesus there. It is steeply angled into the mountainside near Rif-Dimashq, where there are frequent pleasant breezes and a pleasant ambiance.
There are a number of monuments in Maaloula that date back to different historical periods, but those belonging to the Byzantine era are perhaps the most prominent. One of the most prominent landmarks is the Monastery of Mar Sarkis, which was built over the site of an ancient Roman temple. It is one of the oldest Christian monasteries in the East and a popular Christian pilgrimage destination.
A second ancient site is Mar Thekla Monastery, where, according to historical stories, St Thekla was buried to escape oppression due to her belief in the teachings of St Paul. The Aramaic language, which was the language of Jesus Christ, is what gives Maaloula its widespread fame.
Palmyra — The Pearl of the Desert
Palmyra is unquestionably your destination if you enjoy exploring deserted areas and learning about historic landmarks and ruins. It is located 270 kilometers northeast of Damascus. In Palmyra, the earliest Roman ruins ever discovered were found.
One of the city's most famous monuments is the Street of Columns, which stretches for 1.2 kilometers and leads to the Arc de Triomphe. In addition Palmyra has a theater dating back to the third century, a number of temples, including the Temple of Bel, which dates back to the first century. A similar city to Palmyra is Apamea, which is 60 km northwest of Hama and features a main street that is over 600 meters long surrounded by Roman columns.
Krak des Chevaliers — The Crusader Castle
Krak des Chevaliers is believed to be one of the most exciting tourist destinations — its military archaeological architecture makes it a perfect destination for enthusiasts of medieval wars. It has been listed on the UNESCO World Heritage List as one of the most significant Crusader archeological sites and the most famous medieval castles in the Middle East.
The fortress is located in Homs, in the middle of Syria, on a hill with a height of 650 meters and is characterized by strong walls and beautiful engineering. It has slots for projectiles and arrows, as well as a moat and a courtyard surrounded by columns, a number of halls, and a residence for the ruler.
Bosra al-Sham — The Roman Theater City
Syria's southern region holds a special place in history due to the many archaeological sites and monuments that have been discovered there. Among its oldest and richest places is Bosra al-Sham, located 140 km south of Damascus, and the most noticeable of its remains date back to Roman times.
Its famous theater is considered one of the best-preserved Roman theaters in the world, capable of accommodating more than 15,000 spectators. Major features include the mosque "Mubarak Al Naqa" which the Prophet Muhammad is believed to have reached on one of his commercial trips, remains of Nabataean walls, the Roman triumphal arch from the third century, Roman baths dating back to the second century, Nabataean ponds and a Nabataean temple founded in the first century AD.
Norias of Hama — The Ancient Water Wheels
Norias, also called water wheels, have an ancient history dating back to the Byzantine era. Hama is famous for the seventeen waterwheels that people from all over Syria come to witness their greatness. Some of the waterwheels still serve the city by distributing irrigation water into different areas.
The waterwheels formed a part of the historic heritage that demonstrates the creativity of the locals and their long history of overcoming natural difficulties. One of Hama's most famous waterwheels still in good condition today is Al Mamouria Noria, located near Al-Azm Palace. It dates back to 1453 AD and was constructed in 1361 with a diameter of 27 meters.