[{"title":"Day 1 - Arrival in Damascus","name":"Damascus","description":"<p>Welcome to Damascus! Upon arrival at Damascus Airport, meet your Syrian driver who will transfer you to the heart of Damascus City.</p><br/><p><strong>Damascus City Tour<br /><br/></strong>After a brief rest, embark on a tour of Old Damascus. Begin with a visit to the National Museum to gain insights into Syrian history. Continue your exploration of the Old City, including a stroll through the historic Al Hamediyah Souk, where you can browse diverse goods. Enjoy a break at Bakddash, the oldest ice cream market, known for its rich Arabian ice cream. Next, visit the Umayyad Mosque, a testament to the shared religious heritage of Christians and Muslims.</p><br/><p><strong>Historic and Cultural Sites<br /><br/></strong>Proceed to Azem Palace to discover traditional Damascene house layouts. Explore the vibrant Al Bzourieh Souk, renowned for its spices and herbs. A short walk will bring you to the ancient Street Called Straight, mentioned in the Holy Bible, flanked by churches.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Lunch and Holy Sites</strong></p><br/><p>Enjoy a lunch break before continuing to Saint Ananias House, one of Christianity’s oldest sites. Conclude your day with a visit to Saint Paul’s Window (Bab Kisan) before returning to your hotel for an overnight stay.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>None</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight Emar Hotel or similar</p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Airport transfer</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Damascus Airport to Damascus City Centre: 30 km | 30 minutes</p><br/>","lat":"33.513807","lng":"36.276528"},{"title":"Day 2 - Damascus – Sednaya – Maaloula – Al Marah – Nebek","name":"Damascus","description":"<p><strong>Sednaya<br /><br/></strong>An early start today, commencing with a visit to the town of Sednayah. This town has grown up around an important and old convent which dates back to 547 AD. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, the convent holds one of the four paintings of the Virgin attributed to St Luke the Evangelist. The sacred icon is preserved in a small, low-ceiling chapel, lit by candles. The walls are covered with offerings, old icons, gold and silver crosses or motifs.</p><br/><p><strong>Maalula<br /><br/></strong>Maaloula (Aramaic for “entrance”), the language spoken by Christ, can still be heard here. The houses in the village are built on sharp rocks. Here, you can see the first altar from Christianity and hear the prayer “Our Father” in Aramaic. Also located here, is the monastery of St. Tekla – the first Christian saint. According to local legend, Tekla’s father was an</p><br/><p>influential pagan and his soldiers hunted her down to punish her. When she reached the rock, chased by the soldiers, God cut the mountain in two and made a path for the martyr through which she managed to escape. Later, Saint Tekla returned to the location where the miracle happened and settled in a cave. Today, you will pass through the narrow path between the rocks, in the footsteps of the saint.</p><br/><p><strong>Al Marah City (“Rosa Damascena City”)<br /><br/></strong>Continuing on to Al Marah City, or Rosa Damascena City, you will see locals in their fields collecting damascene roses to make rose water or rose syrup which is used in traditional drinks and many Syrian sweets. In 2019, practices and craftsmanship associated with the Damascene roses in the village were included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list.</p><br/><p><strong>Nebek<br /><br/></strong>Continue to Nebek for a unique experience at Mar Moussa Monastery. The ancient Syrian monastery of St. Moses the Abyssinian (Deir Mar Musa el-Habashi) overlooks a harsh valley in the mountains east of the small town of Nebek. Here you will see a double monastic community (men and women together, which is quite rare). Here you will experience the monks daily life in addition to the presence of Muslim symbols inside the monastery as well as Muslim people alongside the Christians.<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast, Dinner</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight Mar Moussa Monastery or similar</p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Sednaya to Maalula: 25 km | 40 minutes<br /><br/>Maalula to Al Marah City: 55 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Al Marah City to Nebek: 35 km | 50 minutes</p><br/>","lat":"33.513807","lng":"36.276528"},{"title":"Day 2 - Damascus – Sednaya – Maaloula – Al Marah – Nebek","name":"Maaloula","description":"<p><strong>Sednaya<br /><br/></strong>An early start today, commencing with a visit to the town of Sednayah. This town has grown up around an important and old convent which dates back to 547 AD. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, the convent holds one of the four paintings of the Virgin attributed to St Luke the Evangelist. The sacred icon is preserved in a small, low-ceiling chapel, lit by candles. The walls are covered with offerings, old icons, gold and silver crosses or motifs.</p><br/><p><strong>Maalula<br /><br/></strong>Maaloula (Aramaic for “entrance”), the language spoken by Christ, can still be heard here. The houses in the village are built on sharp rocks. Here, you can see the first altar from Christianity and hear the prayer “Our Father” in Aramaic. Also located here, is the monastery of St. Tekla – the first Christian saint. According to local legend, Tekla’s father was an</p><br/><p>influential pagan and his soldiers hunted her down to punish her. When she reached the rock, chased by the soldiers, God cut the mountain in two and made a path for the martyr through which she managed to escape. Later, Saint Tekla returned to the location where the miracle happened and settled in a cave. Today, you will pass through the narrow path between the rocks, in the footsteps of the saint.</p><br/><p><strong>Al Marah City (“Rosa Damascena City”)<br /><br/></strong>Continuing on to Al Marah City, or Rosa Damascena City, you will see locals in their fields collecting damascene roses to make rose water or rose syrup which is used in traditional drinks and many Syrian sweets. In 2019, practices and craftsmanship associated with the Damascene roses in the village were included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list.</p><br/><p><strong>Nebek<br /><br/></strong>Continue to Nebek for a unique experience at Mar Moussa Monastery. The ancient Syrian monastery of St. Moses the Abyssinian (Deir Mar Musa el-Habashi) overlooks a harsh valley in the mountains east of the small town of Nebek. Here you will see a double monastic community (men and women together, which is quite rare). Here you will experience the monks daily life in addition to the presence of Muslim symbols inside the monastery as well as Muslim people alongside the Christians.<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast, Dinner</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight Mar Moussa Monastery or similar</p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Sednaya to Maalula: 25 km | 40 minutes<br /><br/>Maalula to Al Marah City: 55 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Al Marah City to Nebek: 35 km | 50 minutes</p><br/>","lat":"33.844623","lng":"36.549984"},{"title":"Day 2 - Damascus – Sednaya – Maaloula – Al Marah – Nebek","name":"Sednayah","description":"<p><strong>Sednaya<br /><br/></strong>An early start today, commencing with a visit to the town of Sednayah. This town has grown up around an important and old convent which dates back to 547 AD. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, the convent holds one of the four paintings of the Virgin attributed to St Luke the Evangelist. The sacred icon is preserved in a small, low-ceiling chapel, lit by candles. The walls are covered with offerings, old icons, gold and silver crosses or motifs.</p><br/><p><strong>Maalula<br /><br/></strong>Maaloula (Aramaic for “entrance”), the language spoken by Christ, can still be heard here. The houses in the village are built on sharp rocks. Here, you can see the first altar from Christianity and hear the prayer “Our Father” in Aramaic. Also located here, is the monastery of St. Tekla – the first Christian saint. According to local legend, Tekla’s father was an</p><br/><p>influential pagan and his soldiers hunted her down to punish her. When she reached the rock, chased by the soldiers, God cut the mountain in two and made a path for the martyr through which she managed to escape. Later, Saint Tekla returned to the location where the miracle happened and settled in a cave. Today, you will pass through the narrow path between the rocks, in the footsteps of the saint.</p><br/><p><strong>Al Marah City (“Rosa Damascena City”)<br /><br/></strong>Continuing on to Al Marah City, or Rosa Damascena City, you will see locals in their fields collecting damascene roses to make rose water or rose syrup which is used in traditional drinks and many Syrian sweets. In 2019, practices and craftsmanship associated with the Damascene roses in the village were included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list.</p><br/><p><strong>Nebek<br /><br/></strong>Continue to Nebek for a unique experience at Mar Moussa Monastery. The ancient Syrian monastery of St. Moses the Abyssinian (Deir Mar Musa el-Habashi) overlooks a harsh valley in the mountains east of the small town of Nebek. Here you will see a double monastic community (men and women together, which is quite rare). Here you will experience the monks daily life in addition to the presence of Muslim symbols inside the monastery as well as Muslim people alongside the Christians.<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast, Dinner</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight Mar Moussa Monastery or similar</p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Sednaya to Maalula: 25 km | 40 minutes<br /><br/>Maalula to Al Marah City: 55 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Al Marah City to Nebek: 35 km | 50 minutes</p><br/>","lat":"33.690923","lng":"36.368768"},{"title":"Day 2 - Damascus – Sednaya – Maaloula – Al Marah – Nebek","name":"Al Nabk","description":"<p><strong>Sednaya<br /><br/></strong>An early start today, commencing with a visit to the town of Sednayah. This town has grown up around an important and old convent which dates back to 547 AD. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, the convent holds one of the four paintings of the Virgin attributed to St Luke the Evangelist. The sacred icon is preserved in a small, low-ceiling chapel, lit by candles. The walls are covered with offerings, old icons, gold and silver crosses or motifs.</p><br/><p><strong>Maalula<br /><br/></strong>Maaloula (Aramaic for “entrance”), the language spoken by Christ, can still be heard here. The houses in the village are built on sharp rocks. Here, you can see the first altar from Christianity and hear the prayer “Our Father” in Aramaic. Also located here, is the monastery of St. Tekla – the first Christian saint. According to local legend, Tekla’s father was an</p><br/><p>influential pagan and his soldiers hunted her down to punish her. When she reached the rock, chased by the soldiers, God cut the mountain in two and made a path for the martyr through which she managed to escape. Later, Saint Tekla returned to the location where the miracle happened and settled in a cave. Today, you will pass through the narrow path between the rocks, in the footsteps of the saint.</p><br/><p><strong>Al Marah City (“Rosa Damascena City”)<br /><br/></strong>Continuing on to Al Marah City, or Rosa Damascena City, you will see locals in their fields collecting damascene roses to make rose water or rose syrup which is used in traditional drinks and many Syrian sweets. In 2019, practices and craftsmanship associated with the Damascene roses in the village were included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list.</p><br/><p><strong>Nebek<br /><br/></strong>Continue to Nebek for a unique experience at Mar Moussa Monastery. The ancient Syrian monastery of St. Moses the Abyssinian (Deir Mar Musa el-Habashi) overlooks a harsh valley in the mountains east of the small town of Nebek. Here you will see a double monastic community (men and women together, which is quite rare). Here you will experience the monks daily life in addition to the presence of Muslim symbols inside the monastery as well as Muslim people alongside the Christians.<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast, Dinner</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight Mar Moussa Monastery or similar</p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Sednaya to Maalula: 25 km | 40 minutes<br /><br/>Maalula to Al Marah City: 55 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Al Marah City to Nebek: 35 km | 50 minutes</p><br/>","lat":"34.013219","lng":"36.733459"},{"title":"Day 2 - Damascus – Sednaya – Maaloula – Al Marah – Nebek","name":"Al-Marah","description":"<p><strong>Sednaya<br /><br/></strong>An early start today, commencing with a visit to the town of Sednayah. This town has grown up around an important and old convent which dates back to 547 AD. Dedicated to the Blessed Virgin, the convent holds one of the four paintings of the Virgin attributed to St Luke the Evangelist. The sacred icon is preserved in a small, low-ceiling chapel, lit by candles. The walls are covered with offerings, old icons, gold and silver crosses or motifs.</p><br/><p><strong>Maalula<br /><br/></strong>Maaloula (Aramaic for “entrance”), the language spoken by Christ, can still be heard here. The houses in the village are built on sharp rocks. Here, you can see the first altar from Christianity and hear the prayer “Our Father” in Aramaic. Also located here, is the monastery of St. Tekla – the first Christian saint. According to local legend, Tekla’s father was an</p><br/><p>influential pagan and his soldiers hunted her down to punish her. When she reached the rock, chased by the soldiers, God cut the mountain in two and made a path for the martyr through which she managed to escape. Later, Saint Tekla returned to the location where the miracle happened and settled in a cave. Today, you will pass through the narrow path between the rocks, in the footsteps of the saint.</p><br/><p><strong>Al Marah City (“Rosa Damascena City”)<br /><br/></strong>Continuing on to Al Marah City, or Rosa Damascena City, you will see locals in their fields collecting damascene roses to make rose water or rose syrup which is used in traditional drinks and many Syrian sweets. In 2019, practices and craftsmanship associated with the Damascene roses in the village were included in UNESCO’s intangible cultural heritage list.</p><br/><p><strong>Nebek<br /><br/></strong>Continue to Nebek for a unique experience at Mar Moussa Monastery. The ancient Syrian monastery of St. Moses the Abyssinian (Deir Mar Musa el-Habashi) overlooks a harsh valley in the mountains east of the small town of Nebek. Here you will see a double monastic community (men and women together, which is quite rare). Here you will experience the monks daily life in addition to the presence of Muslim symbols inside the monastery as well as Muslim people alongside the Christians.<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast, Dinner</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight Mar Moussa Monastery or similar</p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Sednaya to Maalula: 25 km | 40 minutes<br /><br/>Maalula to Al Marah City: 55 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Al Marah City to Nebek: 35 km | 50 minutes</p><br/>","lat":"33.881872","lng":"36.687633"},{"title":"Day 3 - Nebek – Palmyra – Mishtaya","name":"Palmyra","description":"<p>This morning it is an early start as you continue to Palmyra, an oasis in the Syrian desert, which contains the monumental ruins of a great city that was one of the most important cultural centres of the ancient world. From the 1st to the 2nd century, the art and architecture of Palmyra, standing at the crossroads of several civilizations, married Graeco-Roman techniques with local traditions and Persian influences. Enjoy a full day here to visit the ruined city.</p><br/><p><strong>Palmyra</strong><br /><br/>Palmyra, known as Tadmor in Aramaic meaning “palm tree,” was a thriving centre of caravan trade and crafts from the 1st to the 3rd centuries AD. Often referred to as “the bride of the desert,” it was a key point on the caravan route across the Syrian desert. Located in an oasis 215 km northeast of Damascus and 120 km southwest of the Euphrates River, Palmyra’s ancient ruins include the theatre, the agora, the baths, the Tetrapylon, and the remains of the main gate of the temple of Baal-Shamin. Although the site was destroyed by the Romans in 273, its historical significance remains evident in its well-preserved structures. Drive to Mishtaya near Hama for overnight.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight in Hotel Mishtaya or similar<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Palmyra to Mishtaya (near Hama): 150 km | 2.5 hours</p><br/>","lat":"34.570012","lng":"38.292165"},{"title":"Day 3 - Nebek – Palmyra – Mishtaya","name":"Al Nabk","description":"<p>This morning it is an early start as you continue to Palmyra, an oasis in the Syrian desert, which contains the monumental ruins of a great city that was one of the most important cultural centres of the ancient world. From the 1st to the 2nd century, the art and architecture of Palmyra, standing at the crossroads of several civilizations, married Graeco-Roman techniques with local traditions and Persian influences. Enjoy a full day here to visit the ruined city.</p><br/><p><strong>Palmyra</strong><br /><br/>Palmyra, known as Tadmor in Aramaic meaning “palm tree,” was a thriving centre of caravan trade and crafts from the 1st to the 3rd centuries AD. Often referred to as “the bride of the desert,” it was a key point on the caravan route across the Syrian desert. Located in an oasis 215 km northeast of Damascus and 120 km southwest of the Euphrates River, Palmyra’s ancient ruins include the theatre, the agora, the baths, the Tetrapylon, and the remains of the main gate of the temple of Baal-Shamin. Although the site was destroyed by the Romans in 273, its historical significance remains evident in its well-preserved structures. Drive to Mishtaya near Hama for overnight.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight in Hotel Mishtaya or similar<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Palmyra to Mishtaya (near Hama): 150 km | 2.5 hours</p><br/>","lat":"34.013219","lng":"36.733459"},{"title":"Day 4 - Mishtaya – Krack des Chevaliers – Safita - Marqab – Kassab","name":"Safita","description":"<p><strong>Krack des Chevaliers<br /><br/></strong>Krack des Chevaliers is a fortress of the Hospitallers (Order of Malta), located in Syria’s Homs Governorate, near the Lebanese border. Perched on a 650-metre-high hill, it is situated not far from the road connecting Antioch to Beirut and the Mediterranean Sea. The name means “Fortress of the Knights,” derived from the Assyrian “karak” (fortress) and the French “chevalier” (knight). Considered one of the greatest fortresses in the world, its strategic location in the valley between Homs and Tripoli and its impressive medieval fortifications have kept it safe from siege or attack. The castle was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site in 2006.</p><br/><p><strong>Safita</strong><br /><br/>The region was first controlled by the Crusaders around 1110 and was mentioned in an Arab chronicle in 1112. The Knights Templar constructed a dungeon and later a tower by 1152. Known as Chastel Blanc, Burj Safita, or Safita Tower, the base of the structure dates back to the Phoenician era. The current tower, which remains of the original castle, was restored in 1170 and 1202 following earthquake damage. The large bell on the western wall of the castle can be heard up to 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) away from Safita.</p><br/><p><strong>Marqab</strong><br /><br/>Margat, also known as Marqab, is a castle near Baniyas, Syria. It was a Crusader fortress and one of the major strongholds of the Knights Hospitaller. Drive to Kassab in the Latakia Governorate for the night.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight in Hotel Kassab or similar<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services</strong>Priv<br /><br/>ate vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)</strong>Hotel Kassab to Mishtaya: 50 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Crack des Chevaliers to Safita: 50 km | 1.5 hours<br /><br/>Safita to Marqab: 30 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Marqab to Hotel Kassab: 60 km | 1.5 hours</p><br/>","lat":"34.819035","lng":"36.119231"},{"title":"Day 4 - Mishtaya – Krack des Chevaliers – Safita - Marqab – Kassab","name":"Kesab","description":"<p><strong>Krack des Chevaliers<br /><br/></strong>Krack des Chevaliers is a fortress of the Hospitallers (Order of Malta), located in Syria’s Homs Governorate, near the Lebanese border. Perched on a 650-metre-high hill, it is situated not far from the road connecting Antioch to Beirut and the Mediterranean Sea. The name means “Fortress of the Knights,” derived from the Assyrian “karak” (fortress) and the French “chevalier” (knight). Considered one of the greatest fortresses in the world, its strategic location in the valley between Homs and Tripoli and its impressive medieval fortifications have kept it safe from siege or attack. The castle was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site in 2006.</p><br/><p><strong>Safita</strong><br /><br/>The region was first controlled by the Crusaders around 1110 and was mentioned in an Arab chronicle in 1112. The Knights Templar constructed a dungeon and later a tower by 1152. Known as Chastel Blanc, Burj Safita, or Safita Tower, the base of the structure dates back to the Phoenician era. The current tower, which remains of the original castle, was restored in 1170 and 1202 following earthquake damage. The large bell on the western wall of the castle can be heard up to 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) away from Safita.</p><br/><p><strong>Marqab</strong><br /><br/>Margat, also known as Marqab, is a castle near Baniyas, Syria. It was a Crusader fortress and one of the major strongholds of the Knights Hospitaller. Drive to Kassab in the Latakia Governorate for the night.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight in Hotel Kassab or similar<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services</strong>Priv<br /><br/>ate vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)</strong>Hotel Kassab to Mishtaya: 50 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Crack des Chevaliers to Safita: 50 km | 1.5 hours<br /><br/>Safita to Marqab: 30 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Marqab to Hotel Kassab: 60 km | 1.5 hours</p><br/>","lat":"35.926252","lng":"35.987357"},{"title":"Day 4 - Mishtaya – Krack des Chevaliers – Safita - Marqab – Kassab","name":"Qal'at al Hisn","description":"<p><strong>Krack des Chevaliers<br /><br/></strong>Krack des Chevaliers is a fortress of the Hospitallers (Order of Malta), located in Syria’s Homs Governorate, near the Lebanese border. Perched on a 650-metre-high hill, it is situated not far from the road connecting Antioch to Beirut and the Mediterranean Sea. The name means “Fortress of the Knights,” derived from the Assyrian “karak” (fortress) and the French “chevalier” (knight). Considered one of the greatest fortresses in the world, its strategic location in the valley between Homs and Tripoli and its impressive medieval fortifications have kept it safe from siege or attack. The castle was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site in 2006.</p><br/><p><strong>Safita</strong><br /><br/>The region was first controlled by the Crusaders around 1110 and was mentioned in an Arab chronicle in 1112. The Knights Templar constructed a dungeon and later a tower by 1152. Known as Chastel Blanc, Burj Safita, or Safita Tower, the base of the structure dates back to the Phoenician era. The current tower, which remains of the original castle, was restored in 1170 and 1202 following earthquake damage. The large bell on the western wall of the castle can be heard up to 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) away from Safita.</p><br/><p><strong>Marqab</strong><br /><br/>Margat, also known as Marqab, is a castle near Baniyas, Syria. It was a Crusader fortress and one of the major strongholds of the Knights Hospitaller. Drive to Kassab in the Latakia Governorate for the night.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight in Hotel Kassab or similar<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services</strong>Priv<br /><br/>ate vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)</strong>Hotel Kassab to Mishtaya: 50 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Crack des Chevaliers to Safita: 50 km | 1.5 hours<br /><br/>Safita to Marqab: 30 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Marqab to Hotel Kassab: 60 km | 1.5 hours</p><br/>","lat":"34.787109","lng":"36.272121"},{"title":"Day 4 - Mishtaya – Krack des Chevaliers – Safita - Marqab – Kassab","name":"Marqab Castle","description":"<p><strong>Krack des Chevaliers<br /><br/></strong>Krack des Chevaliers is a fortress of the Hospitallers (Order of Malta), located in Syria’s Homs Governorate, near the Lebanese border. Perched on a 650-metre-high hill, it is situated not far from the road connecting Antioch to Beirut and the Mediterranean Sea. The name means “Fortress of the Knights,” derived from the Assyrian “karak” (fortress) and the French “chevalier” (knight). Considered one of the greatest fortresses in the world, its strategic location in the valley between Homs and Tripoli and its impressive medieval fortifications have kept it safe from siege or attack. The castle was listed as a UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage site in 2006.</p><br/><p><strong>Safita</strong><br /><br/>The region was first controlled by the Crusaders around 1110 and was mentioned in an Arab chronicle in 1112. The Knights Templar constructed a dungeon and later a tower by 1152. Known as Chastel Blanc, Burj Safita, or Safita Tower, the base of the structure dates back to the Phoenician era. The current tower, which remains of the original castle, was restored in 1170 and 1202 following earthquake damage. The large bell on the western wall of the castle can be heard up to 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) away from Safita.</p><br/><p><strong>Marqab</strong><br /><br/>Margat, also known as Marqab, is a castle near Baniyas, Syria. It was a Crusader fortress and one of the major strongholds of the Knights Hospitaller. Drive to Kassab in the Latakia Governorate for the night.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight in Hotel Kassab or similar<strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services</strong>Priv<br /><br/>ate vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)</strong>Hotel Kassab to Mishtaya: 50 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Crack des Chevaliers to Safita: 50 km | 1.5 hours<br /><br/>Safita to Marqab: 30 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Marqab to Hotel Kassab: 60 km | 1.5 hours</p><br/>","lat":"35.150853","lng":"35.949495"},{"title":"Day 5 - Kassab – Misyaf – Deir Mama – Hama – Aleppo","name":"Masyaf Castle","description":"<p><strong>Deir Mama<br /><br/></strong>This morning you will depart for Deir Mama which has two main springs. The southern and northern regions and the central village spreads between them with one main road. Deir Mama’s history goes back to the Roman era; it was the only village in the Misyaf region that was not under feudal rule, unlike the neighbouring villages. Deir Mama’s residents, the Alawites and Christians, share a shrine that each group worships. Alawites refer to it as Sheikh Sobeh whilst the Christians call it Saint Mama. Deir Mama is famous for making the traditional Arak liquor and natural silk handicrafts. Spend time with the locals as they spin silk from the silkworms’ cocoons.</p><br/><p><strong>Hama<br /><br/></strong>Your next stop is the beautiful town of Hama. Located on the Orontes River, the city is dotted with huge water wheels and associated aqueducts from the city’s ancient water supply system. The creak of the wheels with the sound of rushing water is simply relaxing. Continue to Aleppo for the night.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>2 nights at Aleppo Palace or similar<strong> </strong><strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Deir Mama to Hama: 70 km | 1 hour 30 minutes<br /><br/>Hama to Aleppo: 130 km | 2 hours</p><br/>","lat":"35.066047","lng":"36.343207"},{"title":"Day 5 - Kassab – Misyaf – Deir Mama – Hama – Aleppo","name":"Aleppo","description":"<p><strong>Deir Mama<br /><br/></strong>This morning you will depart for Deir Mama which has two main springs. The southern and northern regions and the central village spreads between them with one main road. Deir Mama’s history goes back to the Roman era; it was the only village in the Misyaf region that was not under feudal rule, unlike the neighbouring villages. Deir Mama’s residents, the Alawites and Christians, share a shrine that each group worships. Alawites refer to it as Sheikh Sobeh whilst the Christians call it Saint Mama. Deir Mama is famous for making the traditional Arak liquor and natural silk handicrafts. Spend time with the locals as they spin silk from the silkworms’ cocoons.</p><br/><p><strong>Hama<br /><br/></strong>Your next stop is the beautiful town of Hama. Located on the Orontes River, the city is dotted with huge water wheels and associated aqueducts from the city’s ancient water supply system. The creak of the wheels with the sound of rushing water is simply relaxing. Continue to Aleppo for the night.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>2 nights at Aleppo Palace or similar<strong> </strong><strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Deir Mama to Hama: 70 km | 1 hour 30 minutes<br /><br/>Hama to Aleppo: 130 km | 2 hours</p><br/>","lat":"36.202105","lng":"37.13426"},{"title":"Day 5 - Kassab – Misyaf – Deir Mama – Hama – Aleppo","name":"Hama","description":"<p><strong>Deir Mama<br /><br/></strong>This morning you will depart for Deir Mama which has two main springs. The southern and northern regions and the central village spreads between them with one main road. Deir Mama’s history goes back to the Roman era; it was the only village in the Misyaf region that was not under feudal rule, unlike the neighbouring villages. Deir Mama’s residents, the Alawites and Christians, share a shrine that each group worships. Alawites refer to it as Sheikh Sobeh whilst the Christians call it Saint Mama. Deir Mama is famous for making the traditional Arak liquor and natural silk handicrafts. Spend time with the locals as they spin silk from the silkworms’ cocoons.</p><br/><p><strong>Hama<br /><br/></strong>Your next stop is the beautiful town of Hama. Located on the Orontes River, the city is dotted with huge water wheels and associated aqueducts from the city’s ancient water supply system. The creak of the wheels with the sound of rushing water is simply relaxing. Continue to Aleppo for the night.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>2 nights at Aleppo Palace or similar<strong> </strong><strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Deir Mama to Hama: 70 km | 1 hour 30 minutes<br /><br/>Hama to Aleppo: 130 km | 2 hours</p><br/>","lat":"35.140888","lng":"36.755199"},{"title":"Day 5 - Kassab – Misyaf – Deir Mama – Hama – Aleppo","name":"Kesab","description":"<p><strong>Deir Mama<br /><br/></strong>This morning you will depart for Deir Mama which has two main springs. The southern and northern regions and the central village spreads between them with one main road. Deir Mama’s history goes back to the Roman era; it was the only village in the Misyaf region that was not under feudal rule, unlike the neighbouring villages. Deir Mama’s residents, the Alawites and Christians, share a shrine that each group worships. Alawites refer to it as Sheikh Sobeh whilst the Christians call it Saint Mama. Deir Mama is famous for making the traditional Arak liquor and natural silk handicrafts. Spend time with the locals as they spin silk from the silkworms’ cocoons.</p><br/><p><strong>Hama<br /><br/></strong>Your next stop is the beautiful town of Hama. Located on the Orontes River, the city is dotted with huge water wheels and associated aqueducts from the city’s ancient water supply system. The creak of the wheels with the sound of rushing water is simply relaxing. Continue to Aleppo for the night.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>2 nights at Aleppo Palace or similar<strong> </strong><strong> </strong></p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Deir Mama to Hama: 70 km | 1 hour 30 minutes<br /><br/>Hama to Aleppo: 130 km | 2 hours</p><br/>","lat":"35.926252","lng":"35.987357"},{"title":"Day 6 - Aleppo","name":"Aleppo","description":"<p>Aleppo was arguably one of the worst affected cities during the Syrian war. Here you’ll get the chance to see some of the terrible destruction, as well as the opportunity to witness the early stages of the massive rebuilding projects that Syrians are now undertaking.</p><br/><p>Aleppo is among the oldest continuously inhabited settlements in the world. Archaeological findings show that it was inhabited as early as the 6th millennium BC. Ruled successively by the Hittites, Assyrians, Akkadians, Greeks, Romans, Umayyads, Ayyubids, Mameluks and Ottomans who left their stamp on the city. The Citadel, the 12th-century Great Mosque and various 16th and 17th-centuries madrasas, residences, khans and public baths, all form part of the city’s cohesive, unique urban fabric.</p><br/><p>The biggest landmark of the city is the ancient castle, known by its European name Citadel, which rises on a hill in its historic centre. Not far from the Citadel is the famous Halebski Souk (the covered central market of the city), considered the largest in the world with a length of its galleries of approx 13 kilometres. This market was completely destroyed during the war. It is currently in the process of restoration and nearly 1 km of it is already functional. You will also explore the Old Town and the Armenian Quarter.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Aleppo Palace or similar</p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/>","lat":"36.202105","lng":"37.13426"},{"title":"Day 7 - Aleppo – Aphamea – Homs - Damascus","name":"Aleppo","description":"<p><strong>Aphamea<br /><br/></strong>After breakfast, you will depart for Aphamea which was an ancient Greek and Roman city. It was the capital of Apamene under the Macedonians, before it became the capital and Metropolitan Archbishopric of the late Roman province Syria Secunda, again in the Crusader period. In 2006, the castle was included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List.</p><br/><p><strong>Homs<br /><br/></strong>Continue to Homs where you will visit the Khaled Ibn Al Walid mosque and the Um Al Zinnar church. For approximately 2,000 years, Homs has served as a key agricultural market, production site and trade centre for the villages of northern Syria. It has also provided security services to the hinterland of Syria, protecting it from invading forces. Excavations at Homs indicate that the earliest settlement at the site dates back to around 2300 BCE. Continue to Damascus.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight in Damascus hotel or similar</p><br/><p><strong> </strong><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Aleppo to Aphamea: 105 km | 1 hour 30 minutes<br /><br/>Aphamea to Homs: 65 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Homs to Damascus: 160 km | 2 hours</p><br/>","lat":"36.202105","lng":"37.13426"},{"title":"Day 7 - Aleppo – Aphamea – Homs - Damascus","name":"Homs","description":"<p><strong>Aphamea<br /><br/></strong>After breakfast, you will depart for Aphamea which was an ancient Greek and Roman city. It was the capital of Apamene under the Macedonians, before it became the capital and Metropolitan Archbishopric of the late Roman province Syria Secunda, again in the Crusader period. In 2006, the castle was included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List.</p><br/><p><strong>Homs<br /><br/></strong>Continue to Homs where you will visit the Khaled Ibn Al Walid mosque and the Um Al Zinnar church. For approximately 2,000 years, Homs has served as a key agricultural market, production site and trade centre for the villages of northern Syria. It has also provided security services to the hinterland of Syria, protecting it from invading forces. Excavations at Homs indicate that the earliest settlement at the site dates back to around 2300 BCE. Continue to Damascus.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight in Damascus hotel or similar</p><br/><p><strong> </strong><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Aleppo to Aphamea: 105 km | 1 hour 30 minutes<br /><br/>Aphamea to Homs: 65 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Homs to Damascus: 160 km | 2 hours</p><br/>","lat":"34.732427","lng":"36.713696"},{"title":"Day 7 - Aleppo – Aphamea – Homs - Damascus","name":"Damascus","description":"<p><strong>Aphamea<br /><br/></strong>After breakfast, you will depart for Aphamea which was an ancient Greek and Roman city. It was the capital of Apamene under the Macedonians, before it became the capital and Metropolitan Archbishopric of the late Roman province Syria Secunda, again in the Crusader period. In 2006, the castle was included in the UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage List.</p><br/><p><strong>Homs<br /><br/></strong>Continue to Homs where you will visit the Khaled Ibn Al Walid mosque and the Um Al Zinnar church. For approximately 2,000 years, Homs has served as a key agricultural market, production site and trade centre for the villages of northern Syria. It has also provided security services to the hinterland of Syria, protecting it from invading forces. Excavations at Homs indicate that the earliest settlement at the site dates back to around 2300 BCE. Continue to Damascus.</p><br/><p> </p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Accommodation<br /><br/></strong>Overnight in Damascus hotel or similar</p><br/><p><strong> </strong><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Private vehicle with English-speaking guide</p><br/><p><strong>Travel time and distance (Approximate)<br /><br/></strong>Aleppo to Aphamea: 105 km | 1 hour 30 minutes<br /><br/>Aphamea to Homs: 65 km | 1 hour<br /><br/>Homs to Damascus: 160 km | 2 hours</p><br/>","lat":"33.513807","lng":"36.276528"},{"title":"Day 8 - Departure","name":"Damascus","description":"<p>This morning is yours at leisure until it is time to transfer to the airport for your onward departure.</p><br/><p><em> </em></p><br/><p><strong>Meals<br /><br/></strong>Breakfast</p><br/><p><strong>Services<br /><br/></strong>Airport transfer</p><br/>","lat":"33.513807","lng":"36.276528"}]
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