Bride of the desert

The recent episode of Dan Cruickshank's Adventures in Architecture, revealled the tragic tale of Palmyra, Syria’s most beautiful and magnificent historic site, often described as the ‘bride of the desert’. Although in ancient times Palmyra was a vital caravan city for travellers crossing the Syrian desert on the ‘Spice Route’, this great city became laid to waste by the Roman Empire.

For first hand exploration of a region that boasts a rich and complex history – from Pharoahs, Assyrians, Nabataeans, to the Greeks, Romans and Turks, join Peregrine Adventures on a 22-day Ancient Empires tour from Cairo to Damascus, next departing 6th June 2008.

In Cairo, visit the pyramids, Sphinx and museum and spend a day exploring the medieval city – including a fine 16th century villa. Further south, see all the highlights in Luxor and enjoy a three-night cruise to Aswan. From the summit of Mt. Sinai, watch the setting sun before crossing over to Jordan for a jeep exploration of the Wadi Rum’s spectacular rock formations and desert landscape followed by a visit to the ancient rose-red city of Petra.

Continue north into Syria where highlights include the celebrated Omayyad Mosque, historic bazaars and alleyways of ‘old’ Damascus. Explore the ancient remains and learn about the heroic history of Palmyra, which unfolded during the reign of Queen Zenobia. A major link in the 'Spice Route' from China to the Mediterranean, the city prospered as an ideal stopover for caravans travelling between Iraq and Bilad al-Sham (present day Syria, Lebanon, Palestine and Jordan).

At Krak des Chevaliers travellers explore the greatest Crusader fortress ever built, sentiments echoed by T.E. Lawrence, who having visited some 37 castles in the region, described Krak as ‘the finest castle in the world’. In Aleppo, major attractions include the splendid vaulted bazaars and Turkish bathhouses (Hamams) - the Hamam Al-Nasri dating back to the 14th century, is a particularly fine example.

Located on the Mediterranean coast, Tartus is now an important port, however some of the original walled city still remains, built by the Crusaders in the 12th and 13th centuries. Head back to Damascus, arriving in the afternoon with enough time to shop for last minute souvenirs before the tour concludes.

The tour costs £1,595 p/p including arrival transfer, all transportation, accommodation, some meals, sightseeing and entrance fees plus expert guiding. Flights are not included.

For more information, visit Peregrineadventures.co.uk.