Sednaya Cherubim Monastery

The Cherubim Monastery, also known as Deir Al-Cherubim, is dramatically perched on the highest peak of the Qalamoun Mountains at an altitude of 2,000 meters, overlooking the town of Sednaya. Its history dates back to the Byzantine era, built upon the foundations of an ancient pagan temple. The name refers to the Cherubim, the celestial beings who guard the throne of God. Today, it serves as a vital spiritual center for the Greek Orthodox community and a place of quiet retreat high above the surrounding plains. The most striking modern feature of the site is the monumental bronze statue of Jesus Christ, titled 'I Have Come to Save the World', which stands as one of the largest statues in the Middle East. The monastery complex consists of historic stone buildings, caves once used by hermits, and a central church. From its terraces, visitors can enjoy unparalleled panoramic views that stretch as far as Damascus and Mount Hermon on a clear day. The thin mountain air and the silence of the heights create a powerful atmosphere of peace and reflection. Reaching the monastery involves a steep, winding drive from Sednaya, taking about 15 minutes. Due to its elevation, it is significantly cooler than Damascus, making it a refreshing escape in summer, while winter often brings heavy snowfall. The best time to visit is late afternoon to witness the sunset over the mountains. The Cherubim Monastery provides a unique combination of religious heritage and natural splendor, standing as a sentinel of faith in the Syrian highlands.

Nearby cities

Douma

Douma is the administrative center of the Rif Dimashq Governorate and is located just a few kilometers from the capital Damascus.

Yabroud

Yabroud is a city in the Qalamoun Mountains known for its historical sites and as a summer resort.

Bloudan

A prestigious mountain resort near Damascus, famous for its cool climate and orchards.

Zabadani

Zabadani is a picturesque resort town in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains and traditionally a popular destination for tourists from the Gulf St…

Ain al-Fijah

An idyllic town in the Barada Valley, famous for its gushing springs that supply water to Damascus.

History & landmarks

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Bakha

An ancient village in the Qalamoun Mountains where Western Aramaic is still spoken today.

Saidnaya Monastery

A majestic Christian pilgrimage site atop a mountain, traditionally believed to have been founded by the Byzantine Emperor Justinian I.

Monastery of St. Thecla

A Greek Orthodox monastery in the picturesque mountain town of Maaloula, where a dialect of ancient Aramaic is still spoken today.

Sayyidah Zaynab Mosque

A major Shia shrine near Damascus that houses the tomb of Zaynab, the granddaughter of the Prophet Muhammad.

Deir Mar Musa

A Syriac Catholic monastery built high on the steep slopes of a desert gorge near Nabk.

Nature

Barada

The Barada is the main river of Damascus, creating the famous Ghouta oasis that sustains the city.

More places

Adra Industrial City

A massive industrial complex northeast of Damascus, housing thousands of factories and workshops from various sectors.

Ghouta Oasis

A historically rich agricultural area around Damascus that has supplied the city with fruit and vegetables for millennia.

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Anti-Lebanon Mountains

The Anti-Lebanon Mountains are a rugged mountain range forming a natural barrier between Syria and Lebanon.

Happy Land Amusement Park

A popular amusement park near Damascus that offers families a variety of rides and attractions.

Wadi Barada

Wadi Barada is a picturesque mountain valley through which the Barada River flows to supply water to the capital, Damascus.

Qalamoun Mountains

The Qalamoun Mountains are the northeastern extension of the Anti-Lebanon mountain range and a strategically important mountainous region…