A history graduate's recent journey through Syria reveals that the country is cautiously becoming accessible to experienced travelers, offering unprecedented access to some of the world's most significant ancient sites.
The traveler, who recently completed a master's degree in ancient history, documented visits to Bosra, Maaloula, and Masyaf Castle as part of a journey following the path of Alexander the Great. The detailed trip report posted on r/travel has sparked significant interest in the backpacking community.
Bosra, an ancient city with records dating back to the 14th century BC, became one of the first Nabataean cities by the 2nd century BC. Along with Petra, it was among the most important centers of the Nabataean Kingdom. In 106 AD, the city was conquered by Cornelius Palma, a general of Emperor Trajan, and renamed Nova Traiana Bostra.
According to the trip report, visiting Bosra has become possible partly because former rebel groups in the area switched to the government side. The traveler photographed flags of these former opposition forces, marking a significant shift in the region's security dynamics.
Maaloula stands out as one of the last places in the world where Aramaic is still spoken—the language traditionally associated with Jesus Christ. The traveler attended a Christian service conducted partly in Aramaic and partly in Arabic, offering a rare glimpse into this ancient linguistic tradition.
Masyaf Castle, a stunning fortress closely associated with the Assassins during the Crusades, was one of the two main strongholds of Rashid ad-Din Sinan, known as the "Old Man of the Mountain." He led the Nizari Ismailis in the 12th century.
