"Blocks of Stone" Qal`at as Sim`an Things to Do Tip by MM212

Upon arrival at Saint Simeon, immediately after the ticket office, the first sight one comes across is an incredibly ornate block of stone (see main photo). The Byzantine-style carvings are in an amazingly well-preserved state and the block itself was probably part of a frame of an arch or a window. It is unfortunate that this piece of stone is lying on the ground as shown and was not part of a reconstruction of the ruins. To the left of the stone is a small yard with numerous other fragments of statues and building stones (see other photos). There is also a café to the right for a pause, if needed.