Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral

When you explore the historic city of Damascus, Syria, you will encounter a magnificent religious sanctuary known officially as the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Dormition, or fondly called The Olive Church (Kanīsat az-Zaytūn). As the seat of the Greek-Melkite Archeparchy of Damascus—operating under the Melkite Catholic Patriarchate of Antioch—this grand cathedral serves as the spiritual heart for approximately 150,000 baptized adherents, twenty local parishes, and fifty dedicated priests across the region.

You should visit to experience a fascinating piece of living history: since the 18th century, these faithful believers have maintained full communion with the Holy See in Rome while preserving their rich traditions by conducting services using the Arabic language and the ancient Byzantine rite. During your visit, you will appreciate its profound dedication to the Dormition of the Virgin, which represents the Eastern Christian counterpart to the Latin Church doctrine of the Assumption of Mary.

You can also reflect on its notable leaders, including Youssef Absi, who served as Archbishop Vicar starting in 2006 before his election as the Melkite Greek Patriarch in June 2017. Step inside to immerse yourself in this uniquely historic Melkite Greek Catholic Patriarchal Cathedral.

What to see at Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral

• Also known locally as The Olive Church (Kanīsat az-Zaytūn)
• Seat of the Greek-Melkite Archeparchy of Damascus serving 150,000 adherents
• Services held in the Arabic language following the traditional Byzantine rite
• Dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin, the Eastern counterpart to the Assumption
• Historic ties to the Holy See in Rome dating back to the 18th century

Visiting tips

Take time to appreciate the cathedral's unique blend of Eastern and Western heritage, combining the Arabic language and Byzantine rite with its connection to Rome.

How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning

How to get there & what’s nearby

Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral is easy to reach on Damascus’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Umayyad Mosque and Al-Azm Palace. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Damascus travel guide.