Syria is home to a myriad of religious landmarks that reflect its diverse heritage. From ancient temples to majestic mosques and historic churches, these landmarks offer a glimpse into the spiritual and architectural legacy of the region. We offer you the chance to explore the most significant religious sites in Syria, highlighting their historical importance, unique architectural features, and also the cultural stories they embody. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or a spiritual seeker, join us in discovering the Syrian places of worship and sacred places that have stood the test of time in Syria
Damascus
Indeed, this is one of the largest, oldest and most famous mosques in the world. Actually, it's an architectural masterpiece known for its stunning mosaics and historical significance. The Umayyad Caliph Al-Walid built it in the 8th century. Originally, it was a Roman temple and later a church before becoming a mosque. Moreover, it also houses the tomb of John the Baptist, thus making it a site of religious significance for both Muslims and Christians.
An important religious site, actually not that far from the Umayyad mosque, in Al-Amara district of Damascus. In fact, it honors *Ruqayya bint Husayn*, the young daughter of Imam Husayn, a prominent figure in Islamic history. Thus, the mosque draws visitors from various cultures, especially Shia Muslims, who consider it a sacred place of pilgrimage. Recognized for its unique architectural design, in addition to its intricate tilework and a serene courtyard.
A significant Shiite pilgrimage site and one of the most notable religious landmarks in Syria is the shrine dedicated to Zainab bint Ali. It contains the grave of Zaynab bint Ali, the daughter of Imam Ali and Fatima, and the granddaughter of the Prophet Muhammad. Moreover, the mosque features stunning architecture, including a large courtyard, a square plan, a dome, and two high minarets. This sacred site attracts Shia pilgrims from around the world, especially during the summer months.
Aleppo
A historic madrasah (Islamic school) stands in the al-Jalloum district. In fact, Nur al-Din, a ruler of the Zengid dynasty, originally built it in 1124 CE on the site of Aleppo's Great Byzantine Cathedral of Saint Helena, which replaced a Roman temple. Actually, In 1149 CE, Nur al-Din converted the madrasah into an Islamic school. Consequently, People recognize it for its fine mihrab (prayer niche) and its historical significance as a center for Islamic education.
Homs
A historic mosque located in the Khalidiyah district of Homs. As the name says, it is dedicated to *Khalid ibn Al-Walid*, a prominent Arab military commander who played a crucial role in the Muslim conquest of Syria in the 7th century. The mosque actually features traditional Islamic architecture with two tall minarets and a courtyard displaying Mamluk-style stonework.
A significant religious site sits in the Bab Touma district in Old Damascus. The Syriac Orthodox Church has used it as its seat since 1959, and it houses the Syriac Orthodox Patriarch of Antioch, currently Ignatius Aphrem II. In fact, the cathedral is renowned for its truly majestic architecture, featuring towering dark columns and a dome adorned with exquisite mosaics depicting Saint George. And lastly, people consider it a beacon of beauty among Syriac Orthodox churches worldwide.
One of the oldest churches in Aleppo, with significant historical and cultural importance. In fact, the church is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, who is widely known in the Orthodox Christian tradition as the patron saint of children and sailors. The church has an impressive structure that reflects traditional Byzantine architectural elements. For example, it features a prominent dome, characteristic of many Orthodox churches, and a façade adorned with stone carvings and arches.
In the heart of the old Christian quarter of al-Jdayde, this ancient church has been a center of Christian worship for centuries. Additionally, the church showcases traditional Byzantine architectural elements, including a prominent dome. Furthermore, visitors can admire the intricate interior decorations, all adorned with icons and frescoes.
This memorial, on the other hand, is dedicated to the victims of the Armenian Genocide of 1915. It features a freestanding monument with inscriptions and a sculpture, located in the courtyard of the church. Consequently, the memorial serves as a poignant reminder of the atrocities that the Armenians faced during the genocide. Moreover, it is a place of pilgrimage for many Armenians who come to pay their respects.
Also known as the *Chapel of Saint Paul* or *Bab Kisan*, is a significant religious site for the Melkite Greek Catholic Church. Located near the southeastern gate of the old city (Bab Kisan). This church is particularly famous because it is traditionally believed to be the site where *Saint Paul* escaped from Damascus "lowered in a basket through a window", as in Acts 9:25. Actually, its historical significance and the connection to Saint Paul make it a place of great interest for visitors and pilgrims.
A historical Syriac Orthodox cathedral, a prominent religious landmark in Syria. Dating back to the early centuries of Christianity, the church is renowned for housing a relic believed to be the belt of the Virgin Mary, which makes it a significant pilgrimage site for Christians. The current structure was actually built in 1852 under Bishop Julius Peter, but it rests on Byzantine foundations.
Idlib
A remarkable 5th-century basilica, in fact, Qalb Lozeh is one of the best preserved churches from this period, and known to be the first Bizantine church in Syria. It's set in the historical village of Qalb Lozeh, which translates to "Heart of the Almond". It truly represents the full development of the Syrian basilica style with its exceptional architecture, which later influenced Romanesque architecture in Europe.
Seidnaya
A historical monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, Seidnaya is one of the most revered Christian religious landmarks in Syria. It's famous for its beautiful architecture, ancient manuscripts, and religious significance. The name "Seidnaya" in Aramaic (the language of Jesus) means "holy place." The monastery has a long history of religious and cultural importance. Today, a religious order of nuns from the Greek Orthodox Church of Antioch live and care for the monastery. It is not only a place of worship but also serves as a center for hospitality and charity, including an orphanage for girls.
Maaloula
A Greek Orthodox convent in the village of Maaloula, a significant religious landmark in Syria, nestled in the mountainous region of Qalamoun. It's dedicated to St. Thecla, a noble girl from Qalamoun who escaped persecution and hid in a cave in Maaloula, where she performed miracles and converted many to the Christian faith. In fact, people from all around the world seek the sacred waters of the spring in the grotto because it's reputed to cure ailments such as paralysis and infertility.
Nabk
A historic monastery for the community of the Syriac Catholic Church. It's renowned for its beautiful ancient frescos dating back to the 11th and 12th centuries. Hence, it provides a window into the early Christian monastic life. It's also famous for its peaceful atmosphere that offers a perfect setting for spiritual practice, in addition to the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape due to its location in the mountains. Above all, the warm hospitality is a main character of this monastery, as it hosts various cultural and religious events, and the visitors can stay at the guesthouse to participate in the monastic community's daily life.
near Aleppo and Idlib in northwestern Syria
Also known as "Deir Mar Samaan" or "Qalaat Samaan". It is one of the most important Christian pilgrimage sites in the region and indeed a great example of Byzantine architecture. The monastery is dedicated to Saint Simeon Stylites who obtained fame due to his extreme asceticism. He spent 37 years on top of a pillar, preaching, and many pilgrims visited him for advice. In fact, the complex stands around the pillar on which Saint Simeon stood and includes several churches, a baptistery, and other monastic buildings. Certainly, the site provides a great view of the surrounding countryside and is absolutely a testament to the architectural and spiritual significance of early Christian monasticism.
Located in the southeastern part of the Old City of Damascus, this area, a significant religious landmark in Syria, was actually inhabited mainly by Jews until 1948. In fact, it is one of the three main quarters of the Old City, alongside the Muslim and Christian Quarters.
This historic synagogue, also known as the Great Synagogue of Aleppo, was a central place of worship for the Jewish community in Aleppo. It dates back to the 5th century and was a significant religious site for centuries.
Although not a physical landmark, the Aleppo Codex is indeed a landmark in Jewish history. It is a 10th-century manuscript of the Hebrew Bible, and people kept it in Aleppo for many years before it was smuggled to Israel.
Also known as the "Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue". It was an ancient synagogue in the village of Jobar, built in honor of the biblical prophet Elijah. It was a significant pilgrimage site for Jews known for its beautiful architecture and historical importance. Unfortunately, the synagogue was destroyed during the Syrian civil war in 2014.
Also named 'Nabi Habeel Shrine,' a significant religious landmark in Syria, this shrine refers to Habeel (Abel), the son of Adam. Located near the Zabadani Valley, on the west mountains of Damascus, it was actually built by Ottoman Wali Ahmad Pasha in 1599. People say that it contains the grave of Abel. It has a 23-foot-long sarcophagus covered with green silk tapestry inscribed with verses from the Qur'an. This shrine is in fact a place of pilgrimage for many Muslims and Druz (a religious group who call themselves al-muwahhidun, many of them live in Syria and Lebanon), who come to pay their respects and seek blessings
Also known as the "Shrine of Sheikh Abu Abdullah Al-Hussein bin Hamdan Al-Khusaibi", is located in the Mislon area of Aleppo. Moreover, this shrine is of great importance to the Alawite community and is considered one of the most significant Alawite shrines worldwide. It is dedicated to Sheikh Abu Abdullah Al-Hussein bin Hamdan Al-Khusaibi, who is the godfather of the Alevis. However, The shrine has recently been the subject of controversy due to an attack by armed men, which resulted in the desecration of the shrine. So hopefully, it will be reconstructed soon to welcome visitors seeking worship and blessings.
Finally, these landmarks are vital parts of Syria's cultural and religious landscape, that showcase the country's diverse history and architectural beauty. While some have faced challenges due to conflict, many remain standing as symbols of resilience and faith.
