Syria

Asia

Hisn al-Akrad Castle (the Arabic pronunciation) is one of Syria’s most known landmarks. It was built in 1031 AD for the prince of Aleppo. The castle became the headquarters of the Crusader Knights Hospitaller during the 12th and 13th centuries. The castle is 650 metre-high and was initially constructed form reminisce of an earlier fort. The castle gives you a taste of medieval military architecture, which can be quite an experience!

The Citadel of Salah Ed-Din is another example of the Crusader-era fortifications. It was originally built by the Byzantines before it was captured by Salahaldin in 1188. In 2006, the site was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Ruins of Palmyra is another UNESCO-listed site in Syria. Palmyra is a city of the ancient civilization that took place on Syria’s land. Back then, the city was a trading hub. The city is mentioned in so many historical writings and has its place in the Bible, which makes Syria, as a whole, an experience for those who wish to get a glimpse of the past with modern technological means. The city was part of the stopping points while traveling the Silk Road.

Apamea is an ancient site of Roman ruins. It’s said that the city was built in the 4th century BC. Just like Palmyra, Apamea thrived as a commercial hub under Roman rule. Despite being primarily a Roman ruins site, it also has some Seleucid ruins in it.

Ancient Bosra is another breath-taking place in Syria. It feels like a time machine that takes it to the ancient times of the Romans and the Greeks. Not only that, the site has many remains dated back to the times of Nabatean, Byzantine, and Muslim. One of the site’s biggest landmarks is the Bosra Theatre which was built under the Roman emperor Trajan.

Aleppo Citadel, one of the largest and oldest castles in the world is located in the Aleppo, a northern city in Syria. Like all historical sites in Syria, the citadel was occupied throughout out many civilizations, including Greeks, Armenians, Byzantines, Ayyubids and Ottomans. However, most of what’s left currently is from the Ayyubid ruling era. The site has been a has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1986.
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Things to do and see - Syria

Explore one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world

Damascus

Witness one of the oldest and largest covered markets in the world

Aleppo

Visit an ancient city in the desert with well-preserved ruins

Palmyra

Enter one of the world's best-preserved medieval castles

Krak des Chevaliers

Look at a well-preserved Roman theater and a panoramic citadel

Bosra

Relax on beautiful beaches and explore archaeological sites

Lattakia

See a picturesque town where people speak the Aramaic language

Maaloula

Tour a stunning Crusader castle surrounded by forested mountains

Saladin Citadel

Witness the remains of the famous beehive villages near the lake

Al Jaboul Lake

Climb up to the top of the monastery for great views over the village

Sednayah

FAQ - Syria

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What are some popular tourist destinations in Syria?
Syria boasts a rich history and cultural heritage, with many ancient sites and vibrant cities to explore. Here are a few highlights:
Damascus: The ancient capital of Syria, Damascus is known for its historical significance, vibrant souks (markets), and Umayyad Mosque, one of the largest and oldest mosques in the world.
Palmyra: An ancient city located in the Syrian desert, Palmyra is famous for its well-preserved Roman ruins, including the Temple of Bel and the Temple of Baal.
Crac des Chevaliers: This Crusader castle is one of the most impressive medieval fortifications in the Middle East and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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What is Aleppo known for?
Aleppo, once a major trading center on the Silk Road, is known for its historic citadel and its old city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
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What are The 4 Big Cities in Syria?
With a population of 3.5 million, Aleppo is the biggest city in Syria, followed in size by Damascus. The other major cities in the country include Hims, Hamah, and Lattakia.