Ezraa
A Hauran town with a domed basilica in continuous use since 515.
Updated 4 September 2026
The church of Saint George at Ezraa has held services since the year 515, which puts it among the oldest churches in continuous use anywhere: a centralised basalt building whose octagon-in-square plan carries a dome, built - as its Greek inscription says - on the site of a pagan temple. The black stone of the Hauran gives it a gravity all its own, and a second ancient church, Saint Elias, stands nearby. Pilgrims still come for the saint's feast.
Highlights
- The 515 inscription - the dedication carved over the door.
- The octagon dome - the early centralised plan in basalt.
- The relic shrine - the tomb associated with Saint George.
- The basalt town - Hauran black-stone building all around.
When to go
March to May and September to November are mild. The Saint George feast in spring is the living high point. Summer is hot on the plain.
What to expect
This is a working parish church - services come first and the key may need seeking. The town offers no visitor facilities. Regional access should be checked locally.
Nearby
Bosra is southeast, and Shahba is east.
What to pack for Ezraa
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Comfortable walking shoes - Sightseeing means kilometres of pavement and cobbles daily. Find on Amazon
- Modest clothing - Shoulders and knees covered - the single most common requirement. Find on Amazon
- A slim anti-theft daypack - Zips that close properly; keep it in front in crowds and on transit. Find on Amazon
- A scarf or shawl - To cover the head or shoulders on entry; women especially at mosques. Find on Amazon
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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.
