"Mushabbak Church" Qal`at as Sim`an Off The Beaten Path Tip by MM212

One of the best-preserved churches in the 'dead cities' of northwestern Syria, al-Mushabbak is located about halfway between Aleppo and Saint Simeon. The church dates from the late 5th century AD and was built to provide an initial stop along the important pilgrimage route to Saint Simeon. As a result, the best craftsmen and architects were provided for the construction, as evidenced by the church's architecture. Mushabbak Church has survived remarkably intact: if a roof, windows and a door were added, the church would be complete. It is located a mere 25 minute drive from Aleppo, only a short 2 minute detour from the main road. It is thus still an indespensible stop along the route to Saint Simeon. For more on this abandoned Byzantine church, check out my page on Mushabbak Church.