Abstract
Maaloula is a Christian village with exceptional architecture and location. It has a world reputation due to its dialect; people converse and write in the Aramaic language. It is one of the Qalamoun's three villages with Bakhaa and Jabaden. Consequently, the village has attracted linguists worldwide; moreover, it has been the goal of many travellers since the 19th century. Like many of the traditional sites, Maaloula was affected by modern lifestyles and changing needs. These factors altered the village's architecture and construction techniques. This paper highlights the main characteristics that have been identified by Maaloula's situation. The article will cover various traditional features and the main typology of houses that are starting to disappear. Finally, the difficulties that Maaloula faced before, during and after the Syrian crisis.
Highlights
Maaloula is a secluded Syrian village of the Qalamoun; a mountain range that stretches between the plain of Damascus and Anti-Lebanon
Maaloula is a Christian village with exceptional architecture and location
Many studies show that people resided in the Maaloula area in the early middle Pleistocene; the most probable localities for caves or rock shelters are on the Anti-Lebanon flanks
Summary
Maaloula is a secluded Syrian village of the Qalamoun; a mountain range that stretches between the plain of Damascus and Anti-Lebanon. It is located at an altitude of 1600 meters away from major roads. This environment has affected the settlement in various ways. The Christian festivals are part of a "reinvention of tradition" trend that seeks to promote and maintain what still belongs to popular culture in Syria. Maaloulites, living away from the village, keep either an old house or a recent one where they spend the summer and the holiday season, conducive to strengthening family ties
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