Ancient Syria—the birthplace of agriculture and the cradle of civilization—was the geographic link between the continents of Asia, Africa, and Europe. Through the ages, it served as a strategic point of convergence for travelers, traders, pilgrims, and Crusaders, all of whom left their indelible mark on the history, landscape, and culture of the region.

Join art historian, experienced guide, and popular scholar Dr. Tarek Swelim as we explore the incomparable archaeological and historic treasures of Syria, including ancient stone temples, grand mosques, Crusader castles, and world-class museum collections.

Learn about Syria's rich and complex history, dating back to biblical times, as you enjoy archaeological tours of the ancient cities of Apamea, Palmyra, Ugarit, and Bosra

Explore the bustling capital, Damascus, including the Umayyad Mosque—one of the great monuments of early Islam—and the National Museum of Damascus, which houses one of the world's great Middle East collections 

Visit Aleppo, a still-thriving trading center, where you will tour the Grand Mosque, the Citadel, the Church of St. Simeon, and the National Museum

Experience Syria's colorful markets, or souqs, where traders display their exotic wares and shout their offers to passing shoppers

Optional Pre- and Post-Trip Extensions

The Roman City of Baalbek in Lebanon, October 22–23, 2010
An optional pre-trip excursion to Baalbek in Lebanon is an opportunity to visit what many consider to be the most important Roman site in the Middle East. Baalbek's temples were built on an extravagant scale, and the town was a center of worship well into the Christian era.

Baalbek Extension: $395 ($100 deposit)

The Archaeology and History of Jordan, November 3–8, 2010
An optional post-trip extension travels through Jordan with Dr. Pierre Bikai, renowned archaeologist and former director of the American Center of Oriental Research in Amman. Highlights include tours of archaeological sites and museums in Amman; viewing outstanding Byzantine-era mosaics in Madaba; visiting the pilgrimage site of Mt. Nebo, said to contain the tomb of Moses; and a two-day excursion to Petra, the "red rose" city carved out of multicolored Nubian sandstone and capital of the Nabataean Arabs around the time of Christ.

Jordan Extension: $2,595 ($500 deposit)

 

For more information, including a detailed itinerary, e-mail Clay Patton at cpatton@crowcanyon.org, or call Clay at 800.422.8975, ext. 160.

 

 

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