Happy TravellerWelcome to Khan Shaykhun, a historic town located in the Maarrat al-Numan District of northwestern Syria. Situated at an altitude of 350 meters on the main highway between Aleppo and Damascus, Khan Shaykhun is a hub for travelers and locals alike. With a rich history dating back to the 20th century BC, this town has been home to many civilizations over the centuries and boasts a number of interesting landmarks and sights. In addition to its historical significance, Khan Shaykhun is also known for its agricultural economy, with a focus on cotton and cereals. Although the town has faced significant challenges due to the Syrian Civil War, it remains a fascinating destination for those interested in history and culture.
History: Khan Shaykhun takes its name from a 14th-century khan or caravanserai built by the Mamluk emir Sayf al-Din Shaykhu al-Umari. The town grew up around the khan and is situated below a prominent tell, where excavations carried out in 1930 under the French Comte du Mesnil du Buisson revealed evidence of habitation dating back to the 20th century BC. The site was abandoned around 300 BC. In more recent times, Khan Shaykhun was noted for its beehive houses, an architectural style found across the Levant and probably exported from there to North Africa.
Attractions: There are several attractions in and around Khan Shaykhun worth exploring. One of the most famous is the tell, which measures about 200–250 m long by 18–24 m high, was levelled off in the Bronze and Iron Ages to provide a platform for a series of walled towns built successively on top of each other. The second of these, dating to about 700 BC, has been identified as the Assyrian town of Ashkhani. Another interesting landmark is the 14th-century khan or caravanserai built by the Mamluk emir Sayf al-Din Shaykhu al-Umari. Visitors can also explore the nearby localities of Hbit, Kafr Zita, Murak, and Al-Tamanah.
Syrian Civil War: Like many areas in Syria, Khan Shaykhun has been impacted by the ongoing civil war. The town initially fell under control of the Syrian opposition, and later, in 2014 fell to Jabhat al-Nusra. In 2017, the town was attacked with chemical weapons, resulting in the death of 92 people. After a few months of relative calm, the town was bombed again in September 2017. In 2019, almost all of the towns residents had abandoned it. However, the Syrian Army was reported to have taken control of the citys eastern and northern districts in August 2019.
Despite the challenges it has faced over the years, Khan Shaykhun remains a fascinating destination for those interested in history and culture. Visitors can explore its many landmarks and attractions, sample its delicious local cuisine, and experience the warm hospitality of its people. We encourage you to add this historic town to your travel itinerary and discover all that it has to offer.
