Destination · Qalamoun desert
Deir Mar Musa
A monastery on a desert cliff, reached on foot, with silence all around.
Region
Qalamoun, east of Nabk
Best time
March–May · September–November
Time needed
Half a day to a full day
From Damascus
About 1.5 hours by road
Why go
A climb into silence.
The Monastery of Saint Moses the Abyssinian sits high on a rocky cliff in the desert east of Nabk. You reach it on foot, up a long stone stairway, with the valley opening below you.
Inside the small stone church are medieval frescoes painted around the 11th and 12th centuries. Most visitors come for the quiet as much as the history.
Highlights
- The climb up to the monastery
- Medieval frescoes in the church
- Desert views over the Qalamoun
- Sunset over the valley
- A peaceful, reflective day
Gallery
Seen on our journeys
When to go
Best in spring and autumn.
Spring · Mar–May
Mild days, the best time for the climb.
Summer · Jun–Aug
Hot and bright. Climb early or late.
Autumn · Sep–Nov
Clear, calm days and golden light.
Winter · Dec–Feb
Cold winds, sometimes snow on the hills.
Getting there
We drive north from Damascus to Nabk, then out into the desert. The last part is on foot.
Good to know
- The stairway is steep: wear good shoes
- Bring water, especially in summer
- Dress modestly inside the monastery
- Respect prayer times and silence
Combine with
Maaloula and Saidnaya on the same road, or Damascus.
Travel with Juzoor
Plan a visit to Mar Musa.
As a day from Damascus or on the way north. Tell us your dates.
