10 Things to Do in The Souk Al-Tawileh, Hama, Syria
The Souk Al-Tawileh in Hama, Syria is a bustling marketplace that offers locals and tourists alike a unique and exciting shopping experience. With its colorful stalls, lively street vendors, and bustling shops, it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the culture and history of the region. Here are 10 things to do in The Souk Al-Tawileh, Hama, Syria.
1. Shop for Local Goods: The Souk Al-Tawileh is a great place to find locally made goods, from clothing and jewelry to spices and food. You can find traditional Syrian items like copperware, pottery, and hand-crafted items. There are also plenty of souvenirs to take home, such as carpets, textiles, and antiques.
2. Try Local Cuisine: The Souk Al-Tawileh is home to a variety of food stalls and restaurants serving up traditional Syrian dishes. Try the famous kibbeh, a fried dish made with bulgur and minced meat, or the shawarma, a grilled meat sandwich. There are also plenty of sweets and pastries to sample, such as baklava and qatayef.
3. Explore the Bazaar: The Souk Al-Tawileh is made up of several bazaars, each with its own unique atmosphere and offerings. The main bazaar is the most popular, offering a variety of items from clothing and jewelry to carpets and pottery. There are also smaller bazaars for more specialized items, such as spices, herbs, and dried fruits.
4. Learn About History: The Souk Al-Tawileh has a long and rich history, and there are plenty of opportunities to learn about it. Take a walk through the bazaar and you’ll find many old buildings and monuments that tell the story of the area. There are also plenty of museums and galleries to explore, such as the Hama National Museum and the Hama Citadel.
5. Visit the Great Mosque: The Great Mosque of Hama is one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Built in the 8th century, the mosque is a beautiful example of Islamic architecture and is a must-see for anyone visiting the city.
6. Take a Boat Ride: The Orontes River runs through Hama, and taking a boat ride along the river is a great way to take in the sights and sounds of the city. You can see the old city walls, the Great Mosque, and the Souk Al-Tawileh from the water.
7. Visit the Water Wheels: The city of Hama is home to several ancient water wheels, which were once used to irrigate the city’s gardens and crops. These water wheels are a great example of traditional engineering and are a great photo opportunity.
8. Take a Day Trip: Hama is surrounded by several small towns and villages that are worth visiting. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Salamiyah to explore its ancient ruins, or visit the nearby village of Masyaf to see its old fortresses.
9. Visit the Souk Al-Tawileh at Night: The Souk Al-Tawileh is even more beautiful at night, when the lights come on and the market comes alive. Take a stroll through the bazaar and explore the stalls, shops, and restaurants.
10. Enjoy the Local Culture: The Souk Al-Tawileh is a great place to experience the local culture. Take a few hours to wander through the bazaar and chat with the locals. You’ll find friendly faces and plenty of interesting stories.
The Souk Al-Tawileh in Hama, Syria is a vibrant and exciting place to explore. With its colorful stalls, lively street vendors, and bustling shops, it is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the culture and history of the region. Whether you’re looking to shop for local goods, sample some delicious food, or just soak up the atmosphere, The Souk Al-Tawileh has something for everyone.