Damascus, June 7 (SANA) Serjilla, one of Syria’s most significant archaeological sites, continues to offer a rare glimpse into daily life in the ancient Syrian countryside, preserving a remarkable collection of stone structures that have endured for centuries.
Located in the Jabal al-Zawiya region of Idlib province in northwestern Syria, Serjilla is part of the Ancient Villages of Northern Syria (Dead Cities), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that includes dozens of settlements dating back to late antiquity.
According to Syria’s Ministry of Culture, the settlement flourished during the fifth and sixth centuries AD, benefiting from agricultural production and commercial activity that contributed to its economic prosperity and architectural development.
The site is distinguished by its well-preserved stone buildings, churches, bathhouses and olive presses, which together provide valuable insight into the social and economic life of rural communities during the Byzantine period.
Archaeologists and heritage specialists regard Serjilla as one of the most complete examples of the ancient villages scattered across northern Syria, many of which document a period of economic and cultural growth in the region.
The Ministry of Culture said on its Telegram Channel that efforts are underway to document the site as part of a broader project aimed at protecting and preserving Syria’s archaeological heritage.
The initiative includes assessing damage, documenting existing structures and identifying conservation priorities ahead of future restoration work designed to safeguard the site and ensure its preservation for future generations.
Serjilla remains one of the country’s most prominent archaeological landmarks, reflecting the depth of Syria’s historical legacy and the diversity of civilizations that have contributed to its cultural heritage over the centuries.
N.J/ABD
