The Ottoman-era Khalid Ibn al-Walid Mosque (مسجد خالد ابن الوليد) is perhaps the most famous monument in the city of Homs (حمص). It houses the tomb of Khalid Ibn al-Walid (خالد ابن الوليد), one of the companions of Mohammed (محمد) and one of the most important commanders of early Muslim armies. Khalid Ibn al-Walid (خالد ابن الوليد) was born in Mecca (modern Saudi Arabia) in …
One of the most beautiful historic houses in Homs (حمص) is Qasr al-Zahrawi (قصر الزهراوي), located in the old city neighborhood of al-Hamidiyeh (الحميدية). This two story building features a delightful courtyard with a central fountain and a large iwan on the southern side. It was constructed primarily of black basaltic stone, with some limestone used around the windows and doorways for decoration. The upper …
There are numerous historic mosques (الجوامع) scattered throughout the old city of Homs (حمص), though little research is available on most of them. Characteristic of these mosques is the black basalt stone used in their construction, often featuring tall square minarets with minimal decoration. Many of these stones were recycled from the Roman and Byzantine periods, when the city was known as Emesa. In their …
Remains of the Homs Citadel (قلعه حمص), located southwest of the old city, appear to be of Ayyubid origin. The fortifications were restored during the Mamluk period under the rule of Baibars (بيبرس), but were largely destroyed in the 1830s when the forces of Mohammed Ali Basha (محمد علي باشا) put down a rebellion against his rule. Several towers survive in varying states of preservation, …
The old city of Homs (حمص) has several historic churches (كنائس) worth visiting. Most interesting is the Roman Orthodox St. Elian Church (كنيسة مار إليان), in the far eastern end of the old city. The church is most noteworthy for its frescoes, which date from the late 12th century or early 13th century. These frescoes decorate the apse of the church, which stands on the …
While often overlooked by visitors, the old city of Homs (حمص) is rich in historic residential architecture. Most of these houses were constructed during the Mamluk and Ottoman eras, with some remains dating back to earlier Islamic periods. Scattered remnants from the Roman and Byzantine periods, when the city was known as Emesa, can be found throughout the area as well. While most of these …
While not nearly as expansive as those in Damascus (دمشق) or Aleppo (حلب), the city of Homs (حمص) has an interesting market (سوق) that is worth exploring if visiting the other sites around the old city area. The market (سوق) is located in the northwestern section of the old city and covers several city blocks. As Homs (حمص) does not generally see any tourist traffic, …
