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Saidnaya and Maaloula, Syria

From series “ Survived Artifacts of Early Christian Civilization”
Those who are interested in the history of the Christian culture are recommended to visit ancient settlements in Syria. Saidnaya and Maaloula are excellent examples of communities that were able to save not only the priceless Christian places of interest, but also a unique way of life. These small villages are very close to each other, so as part of the tour travelers usually visit them together.

Saidnaya and Maaloula, Syria According to the latest data, the population of Maaloula is not more than 1 000 people; about 2/3 of their number are Christians. This picturesque mountain village can boast with the Mar Thecla monastery that is famous far beyond the country. The monastery is carved in the rock. Its main feature is a small cave with a chapel. According to one of the ancient legends, relics of St. Thecla are kept in this chapel, which was built during the time of the Byzantine Empire.

Another important Christian site, the Monastery of Saints Sergius and Bacchus, is situated at the top of the mountain above the village. Unfortunately, in recent years, armed clashes have led to the destruction of many religious monuments, and priceless relics went looted. Saidnaya is also known for the ancient monastery named Convent of Our Lady of Saidnaya. This convent is the largest in the country. It is always available to visit. The monastery features an incredibly spectacular complex of architectural structures with landscaped courtyards, many beautiful stairways and covered walkways. Next - Monasteries of Wadi Natrun


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Saidnaya and Maaloula - interactive map

Useful staff nearby

Fuel station: 'Sultan station' in 12 km
Supermarket: 'Super market' in 9 km
Police station: 'Maaloula Police Station' in 0.15 km
Cafe/restaurant: 'St. Takla Restaurant' in 0.69 km

Nearest airports:
 »  Damascus International Airport DAM - in 48 km
 »  Rafic Hariri Airport BEY - in 97 km
 »  Haifa Airport HFA - in 180 km
 »  Bassel Al-Assad International Airport LTK - in 181 km
 »  Marka International Airport ADJ - in 214 km
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Top destination around Saidnaya and Maaloula - Damascus

Many hotels in Damascus are created for a romantic getaway. All the conditions to ensure you have an unforgettable vacation with your partner are offered by the fashionable Oriental Hotel Damascus . Its luxurious rooms are equipped with unique national-style furniture, and some of them having a huge canopy bed with gilding being set on a small elevation. In addition to rooms with an elegant interior, the hotel has a variety of beautiful terraces that are perfect for hosting special occasions, as well as several luxuriously decorated banquet rooms and a restaurant.

A large selection of rooms with a romantic setup is made available at Old Vine Hotel . All the rooms of this hotel are distinguished by drapery made from chic satin fabrics and the most romantic ones have installed, a bed with snow-white canopy. Guests can diversify their intimate getaway in their rooms by visiting a sauna. The hotel also has a traditional courtyard with a fountain in which reigns a pleasant coolness even on a hot day. Fans of spa treatments will surely appreciate the presence of a massage parlor in the hotel, and females will be glad about the availability of a beauty salon.
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