About
Maaloula is a village in the mountains north of Damascus, Syria. It sits in rugged, rocky terrain, and its houses climb the hillside, which gives the place a distinct and memorable setting for a visit.
Maaloula is one of the few places in the world where Aramaic, the language of Jesus Christ, is still spoken in daily life. Hearing it in the village streets and homes is a striking part of any stay, and it gives the destination a character quite unlike other places in the region.
What to see
- Cliff-side monasteries. The village is known for its monasteries built into the mountain, including the Monastery of Saint Sergius and Saint Bacchus.
- The Convent of Saint Thecla. This convent is built into the rocky mountainside, and its position is one of the most visually dramatic features of the village.
- The village itself. Walking among the houses and lanes gives a sense of the community that has lived here for generations.
What kind of visit it makes
Maaloula suits visitors interested in religious heritage, historic sites set into landscape, and living languages. It is a village rather than a large city, so a visit is best approached at a slower pace, with time to look at the monasteries and the surrounding mountains. Those who come for the setting and the sense of an ancient Christian community living on its own terms will find the most to appreciate here.