Syria might not be the first destination that comes to mind when you think about traveling, but it’s packed with ancient history, stunning landscapes, and an incredibly warm population. Although recent conflicts have marred its image, the country is working towards recovery, and many places are now accessible for curious travelers. If you want to visit Syria, you’ll be rewarded with unforgettable experiences. Let’s break down some of the must-see destinations in this rich, diverse country.
Damascus
Any trip to Syria has to start in Damascus. It’s one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Its narrow alleyways and ancient buildings will take you back in time. Wander around the Old City and feel the weight of thousands of years of history under your feet.
Umayyad Mosque
No trip to Damascus is complete without seeing the Umayyad Mosque. It’s one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world. The architecture will leave you awestruck with its intricate tiles and gold-lined interiors. Even if you’re not religious, the atmosphere within this structure is intense and humbling.
Souq al-Hamidiyyeh
After visiting the mosque, wander into Souq al-Hamidiyyeh. This is the heart of Damascus’ commercial life. It’s a lively, narrow street market brimming with street vendors calling for your attention. You can buy almost anything here: from spices and textiles to local Syrian sweets. Don’t leave without trying the famous Syrian ice cream (called booza) served with pistachios.
Azm Palace
Azm Palace is an 18th-century Ottoman governor’s mansion. It’s been turned into a museum, showcasing traditional Syrian life. Wander through the beautiful courtyards, surrounded by fountains and lush greenery, and witness how people once lived centuries ago.
Aleppo
Aleppo is another of the world’s oldest cities. It’s located in Northern Syria and while it was heavily damaged during recent conflicts, restoration efforts are ongoing. The city still holds a lot of charm for adventurous travelers.
Citadel of Aleppo
The Citadel of Aleppo, possibly one of the oldest castles in the world, stands tall in the center of the city. Walking through its massive gateways and exploring the crumbling ruins gives you a sense of the sheer resilience of this city. From the top, you’ll get magnificent views of Aleppo below.
Khan al-Wazir Caravanserai
If you want a glimpse of Syria’s trading past, visit the Khan al-Wazir. This beautifully restored inn was a stopover for merchants and travelers in the Ottoman era. Today, it stands as a serene spot to reflect on Aleppo’s rich history.
Palmyra
Palmyra is an absolute gem for history lovers. This ancient city lies in the desert, about 215 km northeast of Damascus. Known as the “Bride of the Desert,” Palmyra served as a critical caravan halt in ancient Roman times. Though it too has suffered significant damage, some parts of the ruins still offer a glimpse of its former glory.
The Temple of Bel
Despite some destruction, the remains of Palmyra’s Temple of Bel remain a dramatic sight. Once an impressive temple dedicated to Mesopotamian gods, even its ruins command respect. The remaining columns and arches stand defiant in the shifting desert sands.
The Colonnade
The long colonnade that runs through Palmyra is still partially intact. Imagine what this must have been like as a grand avenue lined with statues and palm trees in its prime. Walking here feels like stepping into an ancient world.
Krak des Chevaliers
If you’re a fan of castles, don’t miss Krak des Chevaliers. Located near Homs, this crusader castle is perched high on a hill. It’s one of the best-preserved medieval castles you can visit anywhere in the world. The views are jaw-dropping and wandering around its old halls and towers makes history come alive.
Hama
Hama is best known for its iconic “norias” or waterwheels. These ancient wooden structures, which date back to the Byzantine era, were used to raise water from the Orontes River to irrigate fields. Today, they stand as a symbol of the city and are fascinating to see in person. The sound of the creaking wooden wheels slowly turning in the water adds a sense of calm to any visit.
Hama’s Old City
Although smaller than Damascus or Aleppo, Hama’s Old City is still worth exploring. Stroll through the small streets and take in the charming white-stone Ottoman-era buildings. It’s a quieter and slower-paced area, perfect for taking a break from the bustling larger cities.
Ma’loula
Ma’loula is located roughly 56 kilometers northeast of Damascus and is one of the few places in the world where Aramaic (the language spoken by Jesus) is still spoken. This small village, perched on the mountainside, is a significant pilgrimage site for both Christians and Muslims alike.
St. Sergius and St. Bacchus Church
The Church of St. Sergius and St. Bacchus is one of the oldest surviving churches in Syria, dating back to the 4th century. Walking inside feels like stepping into another era, with old wooden pews and ancient icons adding to the church’s incredible history.
Monastery of St. Thecla
This Greek Orthodox monastery is built into the cliffs and dedicated to St. Thecla, an important figure in early Christianity. You can walk up and see natural caves that some believe were used by the early Christians to hide from persecution.
Lattakia
If you’re looking for a coastal retreat, head to Lattakia. Syria’s Mediterranean coast has some lovely beaches, ideal for those times you just want to relax by the water. Lattakia mixes modern life with ancient ruins nearby, giving you a nice blend of experiences.
Kessab
Located near the Turkish border, Kessab is a beautiful mountain resort town. Known for its orchards and greenery, it’s perfect for travelers who like nature and hiking. The area offers a much cooler climate than the southern cities, making it a great escape during warmer months.
Ugarit
Just a few kilometers from Lattakia you’ll find the ancient city of Ugarit. This site is said to have given the world its first alphabet, making it quite significant in the history of writing. Walking around this ancient port will make you appreciate the legacy of this nearly forgotten culture.
Bosra
Located in southern Syria, Bosra was once a major Roman city. The centerpiece of its historical attractions is its well-preserved Roman amphitheater; you’ll be surprised at how intact it remains. You might be the only one there, which makes exploring the ruins even more special.
The Roman Amphitheater
At Bosra’s heart, the Roman Amphitheater is one of the best-preserved in the world. Climb to the top tiers to get a panoramic view of the stage and the ancient city beyond it. You can almost hear the roar of the crowds entertaining themselves with gladiator fights and performances.
The Ancient Ruins
Apart from the amphitheater, Bosra has plenty of other Roman ruins worth wandering around. Walk among the pillars and arches of ancient streets, imagining what life was like in this once-bustling city.
Quneitra
For the more adventurous, Quneitra offers a stark reminder of Syria’s recent history. It’s a ghost town near the Golan Heights, destroyed during past conflicts. Visiting here is a sobering experience, but it’s a crucial part of understanding the modern history of this part of the world.
Syria is a country of contrasts: where ruins of empires stand beside modern developments, where you’ll see both the toll of conflict and the resilience of humanity in equal measure. Whether you’re exploring ancient ruins or bustling markets, the sense of history is palpable wherever you go. Navigating Syria requires patience and care given its recent past, but those who venture into this fascinating country won’t be disappointed.
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