Destination · Northern Syria
The Dead Cities
Abandoned stone villages from late antiquity, scattered across the limestone hills.
Region
Between Aleppo and Idlib
Best time
March–May · October–November
Time needed
1 day
From Aleppo
About 1 hour by road
Why go
Villages that stopped in time.
Between the 1st and 7th centuries, farming villages grew across these hills, with houses, churches and olive presses built in stone. Later they were left, and many still stand. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The most famous is the Church of Saint Simeon, built around the pillar where the saint lived for decades.
Highlights
- The Church of Saint Simeon
- Serjilla and its stone houses
- Al-Bara and its pyramid tombs
- Walking between olive groves and ruins
- Quiet, open landscapes
When to go
Best in spring and autumn.
Spring · Mar–May
Green hills and wildflowers.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Hot and exposed.
Autumn · Oct–Nov
Mild and clear.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cold and sometimes wet.
Getting there
We visit by private car from Aleppo. Routes depend on current conditions, which we check before every trip.
Good to know
- Access to some sites changes: we confirm before travel
- Wear sturdy shoes
- There are few services: bring water and snacks
- Go with a local guide
Combine with
Aleppo, or Apamea and Hama to the south.
Travel with Juzoor
Ask us about the Dead Cities.
Tell us your dates. We’ll confirm which sites are open and plan the day.
