Destination guide
Maaloula
A cliffside village in the Qalamoun mountains where Western Neo-Aramaic is still spoken.
Published stays in MaaloulaOverview
Discover Maaloula
Maaloula's pale houses cling to the foot of steep cliffs about 55 km north of Damascus. It is one of the very few places where a form of Aramaic, Western Neo-Aramaic, related to the language of Jesus's time, is still used in daily life.
The village was badly damaged in 2013, and much has since been repaired, including its monasteries. A visit combines the convent, the gorge and the monastery on the hill above; many people come for the day, while an overnight stay gives you the village after the crowds leave.
Why stay here
Reasons to stay in Maaloula
A living language
Hearing Aramaic spoken in the lanes is a rare experience anywhere in the world.
Sacred sites
Two of Syria's most historic monasteries sit within a short walk of each other.
Mountain air
At around 1,500 metres, Maaloula is noticeably cooler than Damascus in summer.
Things to see
Beautiful spots to visit
Convent of Saint Thecla
HeritageBuilt against the cliff around the cave associated with Saint Thecla, an early follower of Saint Paul.
Saint Thecla's gorge
NatureA narrow cleft in the rock that, by tradition, opened to let Thecla escape her pursuers. A short walk links the village to the plateau above.
Monastery of Mar Sarkis
HeritageOn the plateau above the village, the Monastery of Saints Sergius and Bacchus is one of the oldest in Syria, with a church dating to the Byzantine period.
Feast of the Cross
EventEach September, the Feast of the Cross is celebrated with bonfires on the cliffs above the village.
Where to stay
Choosing your base
Every listing shows its approximate location. Compare it with the areas below before you request a booking.
Maaloula village
Accommodation is limited, so check listings early, especially around the September feast.
Damascus as a base
An easy half-day or full-day trip by car.
Published stays
Compare current stays in Maaloula
These are published listings, not a promise that a date is free. Open a property for its photos, capacity, amenities, and the total for your dates.
- Maaloula Cliffside GuesthouseOld village, Maaloula
Local flavours
Village bread, local grapes, and home-made wine and arak from the surrounding Qalamoun villages.
Best time to visit
May to October, and mid-September for the Feast of the Cross.
How long to stay
A half or full day, or one night.