Located in the historic al-Jdayde Christian quarter of Aleppo, Syria, Saint Elias Cathedral (Saint Elijah Cathedral) offers you a captivating glimpse into the city's rich Eastern Catholic Maronite heritage. Named after the Biblical prophet Elijah, this historic cathedral was completed in 1873 on a site where a 15th-century church once stood alongside three neighboring places of worship. When you approach Farhat Square, you will immediately notice the statue of the 18th-century Archbishop and poet Germanos Farhat standing before the main gate.
As you admire the cathedral's exterior, look up to see two magnificent belfries and a prominent tower featuring a historical chiming clock that plays Ave Maria every fifteen minutes. Head to the eastern side to observe the marble entrance adorned with yellow columns situated right beneath the high dome, which was famously renovated using concrete in 1914 with Belgian expertise—a pioneering moment in Aleppo's construction history. After enduring heavy damage during the Syrian civil war and a roof collapse in 2013, the structure underwent a multi-year restoration program and officially reopened in July 2020.
Visiting this beautifully restored landmark lets you appreciate both its architectural splendor and its enduring resilience.
What to see at Saint Elias Cathedral
- Two magnificent belfries rising above the impressive cathedral façade
- Historic chiming tower clock that plays Ave Maria every fifteen minutes
- Marble entrance framed with yellow columns beneath the high dome
- Statue of Archbishop Germanos Farhat erected in 1932 at Farhat Square
Visiting tips
Pause in Farhat Square outside the main gate to hear the tower clock chime Ave Maria every fifteen minutes during your visit.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Daytime
How to get there & what’s nearby
Saint Elias Cathedral is easy to reach on Aleppo’s public transport, and pairs naturally with Great Mosque of Aleppo and Citadel of Aleppo. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Aleppo travel guide.
See the full Aleppo travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.