Happy TravellerWelcome to Yabroud, a historic city located in the Rif Dimashq governorate of Syria. Nestled in the Qalamoun Mountains at a height of 1,550 m, Yabroud is known for its ancient caves and rich cultural heritage. Join us as we explore the fascinating history and attractions of this hidden gem.
Yabroud’s name is said to have originated from an Aramaic word meaning cold, which is fitting given its location in the mountains. The city is home to the oldest church in Syria and is known for its ancient caves, including the Iskafta cave where many important pre-historical findings were made by German traveler and archaeologist Alfred Rust in 1930.
One of the most notable attractions in Yabroud is the Yabroud temple, which was once Jupiter Yabroudiss temple but later became Konstantin and Helena Cathedral. The temple is a testament to the city’s rich history and cultural heritage. Yabroud was also mentioned in the pottery tablets of Mesopotamia in the 1st century B.C. and Ptolemy’s writings in the 2nd century A.D.
Yabroud is also known for its notable residents, including the parents of former President of Argentina Carlos Menem, who were both born in the city. Syrian philosopher, politician, and human rights activist Antun Maqdisi also died in Yabroud. Other notable residents include writer and literary translator Youssef Halaq, poet and writer Zaki Konsoul, poet and writer Khaled M. Al Baradea, artist and writer Asem Al Basha, Syrian-Russian businessman George Haswani, and Syrian-Swedish journalist Saeed Alnahhal.
Despite its rich history and cultural heritage, Yabroud has faced challenges in recent years due to the Syrian Civil War. However, the city remains a hidden gem waiting to be discovered by adventurous travelers. From its ancient caves to its historic temples and churches, Yabroud offers a glimpse into Syria’s rich cultural heritage. Come and explore this fascinating city for yourself and discover why Yabroud should be on every traveler’s bucket list.
