Tucked into the rugged cliffs of the Qalamoun Mountains, Maaloula is one of the last places on Earth where Aramaic, the language of Jesus, is still spoken.
Nestled in the rugged mountains of Syria, Maaloula is a village unlike any other.
Known worldwide for being one of the few places where Aramaic - the language spoken by Jesus Christ - is still preserved and spoken, Maaloula holds immense cultural, linguistic, and religious significance.
It’s a quaint little town well worth a visit if you’re passing. It’s houses and monestary on the side of a cliff along with the small quaint shops and quiet streets. It endured significant damage during the Syrian Civil War, noticeable immediately upon arrival. But today continues to rebuild its community.
Plus, located about 56 km northeast of Damascus, it’s pretty simple to get to.
Religion in Maaloula
Geography and Location
The Language of Jesus: Aramaic in Maaloula
Top Attractions in Maaloula
Getting to Maaloula
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Maaloula is home to both Christians and Muslims - much like in a lot of Syria.
Although, it has traditionally been a stronghold of Christianity in Syria.
You can see this by its monasteries, churches, and shrines in Maaloula, many of which date back to the earliest centuries of Christianity.
Maaloula sits in the Qalamoun Mountains, part of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range.
Its name means “entrance” in Aramaic, referencing the narrow gorge that leads into the village.
This striking setting, with homes carved into cliffsides and winding alleys you can explore, makes Maaloula one of the most picturesque places in Syria.
The village lies at an altitude of about 1,500 meters (4,900 ft), giving it a cool climate compared to Damascus and the plains.
Winters can even bring snow, while summers are mild. A refreshing escape from the heat of the capital!
One of Maaloula’s most fascinating aspects is its linguistic heritage.
Aramaic, once the lingua franca of the Middle East, has nearly disappeared. In Maaloula, however, locals have preserved it in both spoken dialects and liturgical use in Christian prayers.
Is it really the language Jesus Christ used to speak?
Well yes, and no. It’s the language Jesus Christ used to speak but the dialect probably went through many chanegs along the way, so it won’t be exactly the same.
Nevertheless, hearing the Lord’s Prayer recited in Aramaic is something you’ll never forget.
One of Maaloula’s most iconic landmarks, this monastery is believed to date back to the 4th century. Built on the ruins of a pagan temple, it is dedicated to two Roman soldiers, Sergius and Bacchus, who were martyred for their Christian faith.
The church is notable for its original altar, one of the oldest surviving in Christendom, and for preserving traditions of Eastern Christian liturgy.
This monastery is associated with Saint Thecla, a follower of St. Paul. According to tradition, she escaped persecution by fleeing into Maaloula’s cliffs, where a miraculous crack in the rock opened, allowing her passage.
Today, pilgrims visit the monastery to seek blessings, light candles, and walk through the narrow gorge known as the “Passage of Saint Thecla.”
Though damaged during the war, the institute was founded to teach and preserve Aramaic.
Walking through Maaloula is an experience in itself. Houses are built stacked on cliffsides, often painted in pale blues and whites, with narrow alleyways connecting them.
Reaching Maaloula is straightforward:
From Damascus: The village is about an hour’s drive northeast. The road passes through scenic mountain landscapes.
Its proximity to the capital makes Maaloula one of the most accessible sites in Syria.
1. Why is Maaloula famous? Maaloula is famous for being one of the last places where Aramaic, the language of Jesus, is still spoken, and for its ancient monasteries.
2. How far is Maaloula from Damascus? It is about 56 km (35 miles) northeast of Damascus, roughly a one-hour drive.
3. Can I hear Aramaic spoken in Maaloula? Yes! Some locals still speak it, and the Lord’s Prayer is often recited in Aramaic during church services.
4. Is Maaloula safe for tourists in 2025? Yes, Maaloula has reopened to visitors. Always check updated travel advisories before planning your trip.
5. What should I wear when visiting Maaloula? Modest clothing is recommended, especially inside monasteries and churches. You may be requested to cover up upon entering certain areas.
6. Can I stay overnight in Maaloula? Yes, through guesthouses and monastery accommodations, though many visitors opt for a day trip from Damascus.
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