Kanawat Ancient City (مدينة القنوات الاثرية) Roman Heritage in Southern Syria: (Qanawat) is one of southern Syria’s most remarkable archaeological treasures. Nestled in a lush valley of the As-Suwayda region, it showcases the grandeur of Roman-era urban planning and architecture. With its impressive temples, colonnaded streets, Roman-era aqueducts, and stone public buildings, Kanawat Ancient City offers visitors a vivid window into provincial life under Roman rule. The city’s serene rural surroundings and minimal crowds make it a perfect destination for history lovers, archaeologists, and photographers alike.
Just a short drive away lies Shahba, the birthplace of Emperor Philip the Arab. Although smaller than Kanawat, Shahba remains historically significant, featuring a Roman theater, residential quarters, and a museum displaying intricate mosaics. Together, Kanawat Ancient City and Shahba form a unique Roman heritage circuit in southern Syria, highlighting the region’s past significance in trade, culture, and administration.
| Feature | Kanawat & Shahba |
|---|---|
| Location | As-Suwayda Governorate, ~90 km south of Damascus |
| Historical Era | Roman Period (3rd century AD), also Nabatean influences |
| Founded By | Shahba: Philip the Arab; Qanawat: earlier Nabatean, expanded by Romans |
| Highlights | Roman theater, mosaics, temples, aqueducts, colonnaded streets |
| How to Reach | 2–2.5 hrs by car/tour from Damascus; Qanawat is ~7 km from Suwayda |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and autumn (mild weather) |
| Ideal For | History and archaeology lovers, off-the-beaten-path explorers |
| Photography | Allowed |
| Nearby Attractions | As-Suwayda city, Salkhad fortress, Druze villages, Bosra (farther) |
Why Visit
A visit to Kanawat Ancient City immerses you in a Roman provincial hub preserved for centuries. The site’s grand temple ruins dominate the skyline, while the colonnaded streets guide visitors through the city’s administrative and religious heart. Its Roman aqueducts are engineering marvels, designed to channel water from surrounding highlands into the city’s public baths, fountains, and temples—a testament to Roman ingenuity. The scale and layout of Kanawat Ancient City reveal careful planning, from civic buildings to residential areas, making it a living classroom of ancient urban design.
For photographers and history enthusiasts, the contrast of lush greenery against the stone ruins creates breathtaking vistas. Walking through the city, you can almost imagine Roman citizens going about their daily lives, markets bustling, and priests performing rituals at the temples. This immersive experience is why Kanawat Ancient City remains a must-visit destination in southern Syria.
While Kanawat Ancient City commands attention for its size and engineering, Shahba offers a more intimate Roman experience. Known historically as Philippopolis, Shahba was rebuilt under Emperor Philip the Arab in the 3rd century CE. Visitors can explore the well-preserved Roman theater, stroll through ancient residential quarters, and admire the mosaics housed in the local museum. Shahba’s smaller scale allows for a leisurely exploration, and its location amidst rolling hills adds a serene backdrop to its historic ruins.
Together with Kanawat Ancient City, Shahba provides insight into the diversity of Roman provincial towns—from bustling civic centers to smaller, carefully planned urban settlements. For travelers looking to experience Roman history without the crowds, combining visits to both sites is ideal.
How to Reach
From Damascus, take the road south to As-Suwayda city (about 2 hours). From there:
- Shahba is around 20 km north (easily reachable by car).
- Qanawat is just 7 km northeast of As-Suwayda.
Hiring a car or joining a private tour is the most convenient option, as public transport is limited in this region.
What to Know Before You Go
- Bring water and snacks; services at the ruins are minimal.
- Best visited in spring or fall; summers can be hot.
- Some terrain is uneven—wear walking shoes.
- No crowds, but also little on-site signage—download a map or guide in advance.
- Combine with a tour of As-Suwayda’s local markets or Druze villages for a full-day experience.
Nearby Attractions
- As-Suwayda city and museum
- Dahr Al-Ahmar village
- Salkhad fortress (south of Suwayda)
- Bosra (2.5 hrs away – great to combine in a southern Syria road trip)
- Local wineries and Druze heritage sites
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