Serjilla

The settlement contains preserved residential houses, a basilica, bathhouses, and olive presses spread across 20 acres on the eastern slope of Ariha Mountain.

Founded in 473 AD, Serjilla flourished as an agricultural center supplying wheat, grapes, olives, and wine to Antioch and Apamea during the Byzantine Empire.

The architectural elements of the two-story villas, with up to 16 rooms, demonstrate the social structure of extended families living together in Byzantine times.

The site features limestone structures at 637 meters above sea level, with several buildings maintaining their original second stories and roof sections.

The community included an andron, a designated meeting space for men, which indicates the social organization and gathering practices of the ancient inhabitants.

Location: Idlib Governorate

Part of: Dead Cities, part of UNESCO World Heritage Site

GPS coordinates: 35.69250,36.48528

Latest update: July 25, 2025 09:15