Saidnaya — the Monastery on the Rock & the Shaghoura Shrine (Near Damascus)

Saidnaya is a town perched in the Qalamoun mountains north of Damascus, home to one of the most important Christian shrines in the Levant: the Convent of Our Lady of Saidnaya, standing on a rock above the town and valley. Christians and Muslims come to it alike — which tells you something about the place. Here's what to see and how to visit.

The way from Damascus

27 km, about 40 minutes north of Damascus — the closest day trip from the capital, and easier than Maaloula, which is half an hour further on the same road, so the two go naturally together.

The Convent of Our Lady of Saidnaya

The main convent is built on a high rock in the middle of the town, reached by a long stair. Tradition dates its founding to the 6th century, attributed to the Emperor Justinian.

Inside is the Shaghoura shrine — an ancient, venerated icon that tradition attributes to Saint Luke. It is the main reason for the pilgrimage, drawing people of every faith to seek a blessing. From the top, the view takes in the whole Qalamoun — worth the climb on its own.

The Cherubim monastery

On the highest peak near the town stands the Cherubim monastery (Mar Thoma) — the highest point in the area, with a statue and a 360-degree panorama over the mountains and the Damascus countryside. It's reached by car.

How long you need & when

• One to two hours for Saidnaya alone; a full day combined with Maaloula.
• Spring and autumn are mildest; winter is cold and the peaks sometimes see snow.
• The convent is an active place of worship — dress modestly and respect the quiet.

We'll get you there

Saidnaya makes an easy private trip from Damascus, and pairs with Maaloula the same day without any trouble.

👉 Book a Saidnaya trip on WhatsApp — tap and message us; we reply right away with details and a fixed price.

• 🧭 See all trips
• 📞 Mobile / WhatsApp: +963 953 814 039

Read more: Maaloula & Saidnaya day trip · Damascus travel guide · Damascus Old City tour

In Arabic: صيدنايا

Wherever your road leads, we'll get you there.

Sources: Convent of Our Lady of Saidnaya — Wikipedia