Homs, one of Syria’s largest and most historically significant cities, is a vibrant blend of ancient
heritage, natural beauty, and cultural richness. Located in the heart of the country, specifically, 162 kilometers (101 mi) north of Damascus.
Homs have roots that stretch back to the ancient kingdom of Emesa. The city is famous
for its strong sense of identity, historical sites, local traditions, and unique way of life. Let’s dive into this amazing city.
Book your tour to Syria here.

About Homs: A Journey Through History

Visiting Homs offers a unique blend of rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture.
As one of Syria’s oldest cities, Homs boasts landmarks like the Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque and the impressive Krak des Chevaliers, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Before the Syrian conflict, Homs was a major industrial center, furthermore, it was the third-largest city in Syria after Aleppo to the north and the capital Damascus to the south.
Moreover, the history of Homs is unique by numerous invasions, with one of the most significant being the Mongol invasion in the 13th century. After the Mongols swept through much of the Middle East, their forces clashed with the Mamluks in a decisive battle near Homs in 1281, known as the Battle of Homs, this eventually, led us to:

Beyond the Folk Belief About the Madness and Foolishness of the Inhabitants of Homs: Legend or Reality?

Homs has a long history of folk belief that the people there are as mad and fools.
Historical and traditional sources also link the madness and foolishness of the Homsians with the Wednesday, or the ‟Day of the Fool” or ‟Homsians’ Feast”, which was considered a special day.
The legend regarding the ‟Day of the Fool” and its celebration during Wednesdays has been passed down orally in the local culture and its origins likely trace back to ancient times when the city was still called Emesa.
It is not just a coincidence. It is said that the people of Homs avoided the Mongol invasion by disguising themselves, acting crazy, and spreading the rumor that their river affected them with incurable illnesses and madness, which made the invading troops avoid the city of the mad, as they still proudly call it. Genius right?

Best Places to Visit in Homs

Khalid ibn al-Walid Mosque

When Travelling to Syria, explore the Khalid ibn al-Walid mosque. One of the most iconic landmarks in Homs, the mosque, is dedicated to the
famed Muslim military commander, Khalid ibn al-Walid.
The mosque stands out for its white marble
minarets and beautiful Ottoman-style architecture. Visitors can explore its intricate design and
spiritual atmosphere, making it a must-see for history lovers and those interested in Islamic heritage. if you are interested: famous mosques in Syria.

Krak des Chevaliers (Qal’at al-Hisn)

Just outside Homs lies one of the most impressive medieval castles in the world: Krak des
Chevaliers. This Crusader castle, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, was constructed in
the 12th century and is widely regarded as one of the most well-preserved castles from the
Crusader era.
Furthermore, the castle is renowned for its massive walls, towers, and spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
In fact, if you’re looking for the top attraction sites in Syria you can find info here.

Orontes River (Nahr al-Asi)

Running through the heart of Homs, the Orontes River provides picturesque scenery and a peaceful
escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. The riverside is perfect for walking and enjoying the
surrounding nature, with the added charm of cafes and small restaurants offering local food.
so make sure to relax by the Orontes River when traveling to Syria.

Church of Umm al-Zennar

A testament to Homs’s religious diversity, the Church of Umm al-Zennar is one of the oldest churches in Syria, dating back to early Christianity.
It houses the relic of the Virgin Mary’s girdle (belt), making it an important pilgrimage site for Christian communities in the region.
(if you are interested in the top Churches in Syria you can read here).

Famous dish special in Homs

Although people in Homs eat the same foods that are common in Syrian cuisine, the city is well known throughout Syria for its own cuisine.
A prominent dish is Batarsh, a type of baba ghanouj made with yogurt and garlic instead of tahini ( you can know more about baba ghanouj in the top dishes to try in Syria)
Also, Homs is famous for Jazar Mahshi (stuffed carrot) it is a native dish in Homs and is made of yellow carrot stuffed with minced lamb and rice.

Festivals in Homs

Christmas and Easter Celebrations
For the Christian community in Homs, Christmas, and Easter are major celebrations, especially in
historic churches like the Church of Umm al-Zennar.
These festivals bring the city to life with
religious processions, services, and community festivities.
Marmarita Carnival
The Marmarita Carnival, held annually in the village of Marmarita in the Homs Governorate, is a lively cultural and religious festival that takes place in August.
Moreover, the carnival coincides with the Feast of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and is celebrated by the local Christian community, particularly the Greek Orthodox.
Furthermore, the carnival is famous for its colorful parades, traditional costumes, and festive atmosphere. In fact, participants march through the streets, often accompanied by music, dancing, and floats, creating a vibrant celebration of heritage, faith, and community.
Afterward, it became a key cultural event in the region, attracting visitors from across Syria and beyond.
You can read about Marmarita Carnival for A to Z here.

With its warm hospitality, rich traditions, and unique historical significance, Homs offers an unforgettable travel experience, book yours now.

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