Kharab Shams

Photo © Hovic Atokian. View all images in our Kharab Shams Photo Gallery.

Photo © Hovic Atokian.

Kharab Shams (also spelled Harab Shams or Kharab al-Shams) is one the many "Dead Cities" in northern Syria.

Located on the eastern slopes of the Jebel Sima'an not far from the Aleppo-Azaz road, Kharab Shams is notable for its particularly well preserved Byzantine basilica dating from the 5th century AD.

Kharab Shams was also inhabited in the pre-Classical period, which accounts for some mysterious ancient carvings on one of the standing lintels.

Quick Facts on Kharab Shams

Site Information
Names:	Kharab Shams
State:	Dead Cities
Country:	Syria
cat:	Dead Cities of Syria
faith:	Christianity
Dates:	400
Status:	ruins
Visitor and Contact Information
Location:	Syria
Coordinates:	36.339565° N, 36.943213° E (view on Google Maps)
Lodging:	View hotels near this location

Note: This information was accurate when first published and we do our best to keep it updated, but details such as opening hours can change without notice. To avoid disappointment, please check with the site directly before making a special trip.

Map of Kharab Shams

Below is a location map and aerial view of Kharab Shams. Using the buttons on the left (or the wheel on your mouse), you can zoom in for a closer look, or zoom out to get your bearings. To move around, click and drag the map with your mouse.

References

Warwick Ball, Syria: A Historical and Architectural Guide (2006), p. 149.
Kharab Shams - Souria.com

More Information

Kharab Shams - Go Historic
Photos of Kharab Shams - here on Sacred Destinations

Article Info

Title:	Kharab Shams
Author:	Holly Hayes
Last updated:	10/27/2009
Permalink:	www.sacred-destinations.com/syria/kharab-shams
Link code:	<a href="http://www.sacred-destinations.com/syria/kharab-shams">Kharab Shams</a>