contrasted and complemented by the
Dead Sea which lies at 400m below sea-level. This unique
sea, the earth’s lowest point, is rich in mineral
content and remarkably buoyant. Further to the south,
Jordan has a coastline on the Red Sea and at the town
of Aqaba the excellent coral reefs are some of the best
preserved in the region. A region steeped in antiquity,
the countries of Syria and Jordan offer a cultural wealth
that is unrivalled throughout the Middle East. From
the earliest origins of man to the birth of Christ and
the dawn of the great civilisations – Roman, Byzantine,
Crusader and Islamic – both Syria and Jordan offer
even the most experienced traveller a thoroughly rewarding
and unique experience. Adept at challenging even the
most sceptical preconceptions, both countries are renowned
for providing visitors with an unconditional warm and
genuine hospitality and it is this, in conjunction with
the fabulous historical wealth on show, which makes
a visit to this region unforgettable. With excellent
transport links and a veritable abundance of places
of interest, Syria and Jordan are exceptional destinations
in their own right. Nevertheless, both countries can
also easily be visited together and this provides the
opportunity to experience the best and most unique aspects
that both Syria and Jordan have to offer.
> suggested
itineraries
SYRIA
At the crossroads of civilisations, Syria is a
land of ancient cities, covered souks, crusader
citadels and stunning natural scenery. From the
plains of the Euphrates and mountainous borders
to the vast deserts in the east of the country,
Syria is a land few have experienced. Damascus
– the name conjures images of ancient Arabia,
of mosques, souks, khans and narrow streets –
is an enchanting city and the lifeblood of the
nation. Along with Aleppo, Damascus vies for the
prestige of being the longest inhabited city in
the world and, as with its sister city in the
north, has a distinct heritage directly linked
to the birth of the Islamic world and the great
crusades. From Damascus the country opens before
you. Crac des Chevaliers – the best preserved
and most famous Crusader castle of the Middle
East – is a sight to behold and only rivalled
in impact by the citadel of Aleppo. Elsewhere
the Roman remains of Bosra and Palmyra hint at
a hidden past. Palmyra, in particular, is a stunning
reminder of the extent and wealth of the Roman
Empire and to this day remains in excellent condition.
> suggested
itineraries |
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