Hama

Situated on the banks of the Orontes River, Hama is an attractive and traditional provincial city, famous for its medieval water wheels or "Norias". Along the banks of the river are attractive parks, where from June to September you can see the Norias in motion and enjoy a drink or meal in one of the many cafes and restaurants overlooking the water. Some of the Norias are up to 20 metres in diameter and local children like to ride the wheel to the top before diving off.

Other things to see in Hama include the old city, the 18th century Azem Palace, the Great Mosque and the Al-Nouri Mosque. For local colour, visit the Souk al-Hader al-Kibir, outside the city centre where country people come to sell their produce.