Al-Mrah Village is the heart of Damascena Rose cultivation, nestled in the mountains of western Syria.
Damasena rose or so-called the Damask rose is one of the most fragrant and celebrated flowers in the world. A journey to Syria awaits, where you will discover the rich heritage of the Damascena rose and its aromatic products.
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The Damascena Rose: A Timeless Treasure

To begin with, the Damascena Rose, or Rosa Damascena,
stands out because of its deep, sweet fragrance and rich historical background.
Syrians have cultivated this rose in Damascus for thousands of years, primarily to extract its essential oils, which people use in perfumes, skincare, and even medicinal products.

Al-Mrah Village: The Soul of Rose Production

Al-Mrah Village serves as the main location for cultivating these roses. Thanks to its favorable climate and fertile soil, helped it earn a place on UNESCO’s Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity List in 2019.
This mountainous area has become one of the leading producers of the Damascene Rose in the country. In fact, many of the village’s residents actively participate in rose farming, passing down techniques from generation to generation.
Most importantly, the town actually produced 50-60 tons of Damascene rose, which is the most important achievement.

Moreover, while visiting Syria, especially Al-Mrah Village, you can explore the stunning landscapes and ancient stone houses; the village offers much more than just roses.
Travelers often leave Al-Mrah with a deeper appreciation for the simplicity and beauty of rural Syrian life.

When to Visit

The best time to visit Al-Mrah Village is during spring, from April to June, when the Damascena Roses bloom in full color.
Specifically, they begin to bloom in May, prompting farmers and their families to head to the fields in the early morning to handpick the roses.
By afternoon, the whole family helps sort the rose buds that they dry to make tea. They store the other rose petals and prepare them for distillation.
A unique trip to Syria promises to reveal the wonders of the Damascena rose so book yours now.

Damascena Rose Products

Farmers in Mrah Village cultivate the Damascene Rose, which is highly prized for the wide range of products derived from its petals and essential oils. These products not only reflect Syria’s rich floral heritage but also play a significant role in the local economy and global markets. Here’s a look at some of the most popular rose products:

Rose Water

Perhaps the most famous product of the Damascene Rose is rose water. This fragrant water is made by distilling rose petals and has numerous uses, for instance, in Syria, rose water is commonly used in sweets and drinks, thereby, adding a floral flavor to desserts like Maamoul and baklava (some of the famous Syrian desserts you can read about here).
Moreover, cosmetics also have rose water in a lot of formula, primarily, for its soothing properties, and people often use it as a facial toner or skin refresher.
Nevertheless, kindly note that some people may be allergic to rose water, thus they need to take a sensitivity test before using it.

Rose Oil

Rose essential oil is one of the most valuable products; in fact, experts derive it from the Damascene Rose.
Moreover, It takes thousands of petals to produce just a few milliliters of this highly concentrated oil, making it precious and expensive.
Furthermore, damascene rose oil is a key ingredient in many high-end perfumes worldwide.
Additionally, formulators highly use it in skin care products like creams, lotions, and serums due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as its hydrating and anti-aging effects.

Rose Petal Jam

A delightful traditional product made from the petals of the Damascene Rose.
The petals are cooked with sugar and lemon, creating a delicate and aromatic preserve. This jam is a favorite in Syrian households and is often enjoyed with bread or used in pastries. You can explore more about Syrian desserts here.
Travel to Syria to celebrate the Damascena rose and the cultural traditions surrounding its use. check out our tours.

Rose Syrup

a sweet and fragrant liquid used to flavor drinks and desserts.
Popular in traditional Syrian kitchens, it adds a distinct, luxurious flavor to teas, lemonades, and other beverages.

Other uses

The Damascene Rose is also incorporated into various natural soaps and skincare items, used for its gentle fragrance and skin-friendly properties. These products are often handmade and sold in local markets, making them popular souvenirs for tourists visiting Al-Mrah and other parts of Syria. Also, rose oil is an important ingredient in aromatherapy products like candles, bath oils, and diffusers.

In summary, these products not only show Syria’s rich cultural heritage but also highlight the timeless beauty of the Damascene Rose to the world, and reflect the deep connection between the local community and this cherished flower.
Damascene Rose and Al-Mrah Village represent the harmonious blend of nature, history, and community.

Whether you’re a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or someone seeking a peaceful retreat, Al-Mrah Village should be on your list of places to explore in Syria. So, why wait? Embark on a journey to Syria

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