Hama
Hama: The City of Waterwheels and the Orontes River
Aug 27, 2026· Hama
A Glimpse into Hama’s History
Human settlement in Hama dates back thousands of years. Due to its strategic location between northern and southern Syria, as well as between the coast and the inland regions, many kingdoms and civilizations ruled the city throughout history.
In ancient times, Hama was known as “Hamath” and served as the center of a powerful Aramean kingdom. It later came under Assyrian, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine rule before becoming an important city during the Islamic period.
The city still preserves many historical landmarks that reflect different periods of its past, including fortresses, mosques, palaces, traditional bathhouses, and old markets. Traditional Hama architecture can also be seen in houses built around inner courtyards decorated with fountains, plants, and trees.
The Norias of Hama
The Norias are Hama’s most famous landmarks. These enormous wooden waterwheels were originally used to lift water from the Orontes River into elevated channels, providing water for farmland, orchards, and parts of the city.
The distinctive sound of the turning waterwheels creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Some of the best-known groups include the Al-Bishriyat, Al-Jisriyat, Al-Kilaniyat, and Al-Muhammadiyat Norias. Walking along the river and watching the Norias is an experience that no visitor should miss.
Top Tourist Attractions
Hama Citadel: Located on a high hill, it offers beautiful views of parts of the city and the Orontes River.
Azem Palace: An excellent example of traditional Hama architecture, distinguished by its inner courtyards and detailed stone and wooden decorations.
Al-Nuri Mosque: One of the city’s most important historic mosques, located near the Orontes River.
The Old Markets: A wonderful place to discover traditional crafts and purchase local products, spices, sweets, and souvenirs.
The Orontes Gardens: These green areas offer visitors an opportunity to relax away from the busy city streets.
Apamea: Located in the Hama countryside, Apamea is one of Syria’s most important archaeological sites and is famous for its long Roman colonnaded street.
Masyaf: A historic town west of Hama, known for its ancient castle and beautiful mountainous scenery.
Activities for Visitors
Visitors can walk along the banks of the Orontes River, take photographs near the Norias, and explore the traditional markets to experience the city’s everyday life and atmosphere. They can also try local dishes and visit archaeological sites, museums, and historic buildings.
Nature and adventure lovers can organize trips to the western countryside, visit Masyaf and Wadi Al-Oyoun, or take a historical tour of Apamea and the surrounding villages and archaeological sites.
Local Cuisine
Hama is known for its rich cuisine, which uses meat, grains, vegetables, and spices. Some of the city’s best-known dishes and sweets include:
Hama-style Batarsh.
Halawet Al-Jibn.
Different varieties of kibbeh.
Shakriyeh.
Stuffed vegetables and grape leaves.
Traditional Arabic sweets.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit Hama are during spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and suitable for walking and sightseeing. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes when exploring the old neighborhoods and markets. It is also advisable to agree on transportation prices in advance or use a trusted transportation service.
Visitors should respect local customs and wear appropriate clothing when entering mosques and religious sites. Before visiting locations outside the city, it is recommended to check local road conditions, opening hours, and accessibility.
Hama at a Glance
Hama is more than just a tourist destination. It is a city that combines history, nature, and authentic local life. From the sound of the Norias turning on the Orontes River to the old markets, green gardens, and surrounding archaeological sites, Hama offers visitors an authentic Syrian experience filled with culture, beauty, and tranquility.
Human settlement in Hama dates back thousands of years. Due to its strategic location between northern and southern Syria, as well as between the coast and the inland regions, many kingdoms and civilizations ruled the city throughout history.
In ancient times, Hama was known as “Hamath” and served as the center of a powerful Aramean kingdom. It later came under Assyrian, Hellenistic, Roman, and Byzantine rule before becoming an important city during the Islamic period.
The city still preserves many historical landmarks that reflect different periods of its past, including fortresses, mosques, palaces, traditional bathhouses, and old markets. Traditional Hama architecture can also be seen in houses built around inner courtyards decorated with fountains, plants, and trees.
The Norias of Hama
The Norias are Hama’s most famous landmarks. These enormous wooden waterwheels were originally used to lift water from the Orontes River into elevated channels, providing water for farmland, orchards, and parts of the city.
The distinctive sound of the turning waterwheels creates an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. Some of the best-known groups include the Al-Bishriyat, Al-Jisriyat, Al-Kilaniyat, and Al-Muhammadiyat Norias. Walking along the river and watching the Norias is an experience that no visitor should miss.
Top Tourist Attractions
Hama Citadel: Located on a high hill, it offers beautiful views of parts of the city and the Orontes River.
Azem Palace: An excellent example of traditional Hama architecture, distinguished by its inner courtyards and detailed stone and wooden decorations.
Al-Nuri Mosque: One of the city’s most important historic mosques, located near the Orontes River.
The Old Markets: A wonderful place to discover traditional crafts and purchase local products, spices, sweets, and souvenirs.
The Orontes Gardens: These green areas offer visitors an opportunity to relax away from the busy city streets.
Apamea: Located in the Hama countryside, Apamea is one of Syria’s most important archaeological sites and is famous for its long Roman colonnaded street.
Masyaf: A historic town west of Hama, known for its ancient castle and beautiful mountainous scenery.
Activities for Visitors
Visitors can walk along the banks of the Orontes River, take photographs near the Norias, and explore the traditional markets to experience the city’s everyday life and atmosphere. They can also try local dishes and visit archaeological sites, museums, and historic buildings.
Nature and adventure lovers can organize trips to the western countryside, visit Masyaf and Wadi Al-Oyoun, or take a historical tour of Apamea and the surrounding villages and archaeological sites.
Local Cuisine
Hama is known for its rich cuisine, which uses meat, grains, vegetables, and spices. Some of the city’s best-known dishes and sweets include:
Hama-style Batarsh.
Halawet Al-Jibn.
Different varieties of kibbeh.
Shakriyeh.
Stuffed vegetables and grape leaves.
Traditional Arabic sweets.
Travel Tips
The best times to visit Hama are during spring and early autumn, when the weather is mild and suitable for walking and sightseeing. Visitors should wear comfortable shoes when exploring the old neighborhoods and markets. It is also advisable to agree on transportation prices in advance or use a trusted transportation service.
Visitors should respect local customs and wear appropriate clothing when entering mosques and religious sites. Before visiting locations outside the city, it is recommended to check local road conditions, opening hours, and accessibility.
Hama at a Glance
Hama is more than just a tourist destination. It is a city that combines history, nature, and authentic local life. From the sound of the Norias turning on the Orontes River to the old markets, green gardens, and surrounding archaeological sites, Hama offers visitors an authentic Syrian experience filled with culture, beauty, and tranquility.