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Maaloula, Syria

Maaloula, Rif Dimashq

Maaloula

Village of the Ancient Tongue

معلولا

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Why visit

  • Living Aramaic language heritage
  • Monasteries carved into the cliffs
  • The narrow gorge walk

Overview

Maaloula climbs a rock face north of Damascus, its houses painted in soft blues against pale limestone. It is known for its monasteries and for being one of the few places where Western Neo-Aramaic has survived.

History

An early Christian settlement with monasteries of long standing; the village has undergone restoration after conflict damage.

Things to see

  • · Mar Sarkis Monastery
  • · Mar Taqla Monastery
  • · The gorge passage

Things to do

  • · Walking the gorge
  • · Visiting monasteries
  • · Day trip from Damascus

Visitor tips

  • · Respect services and worshippers
  • · Comfortable shoes for steep lanes

Dress code: Modest clothing at religious sites

Gallery

Maaloula gallery image 1
360° experience — coming soon
Audio guide — coming soon

Map

Coordinates: 33.8464, 36.5453

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