Syria played an incomparable role in the history of mankind. In this land, man discovered the secrets of agriculture and metallurgy, and invented the very first alphabet. Religions, philosophies, language of trade, systems of urban development, of diplomatic and cultural exchange – all these germinated in geographical Syria.
Damascus is the world’s oldest continuously inhabited city. Many civilisations have left their mark on Damascus over the centuries at The Omayyad Mosque, Azem Palace, The house of St. Ananias, St. Paul’s Window, Al Takieh, Hamidiyah Bazaar, Saladin’s Mausoleum, etc.
160km north of Damascus, Homs, given its central point in Syria, is a principal crossroad. Two famous Roman emperors, Elagabal and Alexander Severus have left their marks at Ibn Al Walid Mosque, the Virgin’s Belt Church, St. Elian Church, etc.
Crac Des Chevaliers, 65km west of Homs, is a perfect example of the military fortifications from the time before the invention of gunpowder and the use of cannons and bombs. The walk through the Citadel brings to life the time when it would have been fall of soldiers and their provisions. At this time, when both East and West followed with interest the battles for its occupation and the heroic deeds displayed during these battles.
150km east of Homs, Palmyra rises abruptly from the desert as a dreamlike oasis. A jumble of magnificent ruins whisper of the grandeur of this metropolis which, in the 3rd century AD, was ruled by the extraordinary Queen Zenobia.
Aleppo, the fabled city with a long history of glory and prosperity since the 3rd millennium BC holds the legend that the prophet Abraham once milked his cow atop its hill. Until the 20th century, Aleppo dominated the trade routes connecting East and West. The most splendid landmarks of the city around the citadel are the souqs, the old baths (hammams), the khans with numerous religious and cultural centres. On the other hand, the city has a large number of different modern facilities which attract tourists from all over the world, such as many luxurious hotels, casinos, bars and restaurants with their famous Aleppine foods and kebabs (grills).
Another amazing castle, the Saladin’s Castle, located on the coastal mountain range at 37 Km away from Latakia, is often considered as one of the most prestigious castles of the medieval period, and probably the most romantic. One of the most magnificent features of this fortress is the 28m deep ditch, which was cut into living rock probably by the Byzantines (it might have been completed by the crusaders).
For Syria, we have found it better to tailor make packages to suit your personal requirements depending on the time you have and your budget.
