A Ride through Syria to Damascus and Baalbec, and ascent of Mount Hermon

Embarking on a less‑trodden path across the ancient plains of Sharon and the Jezreel Valley, the narrator sets out from Jaffa to trace the footprints of centuries‑old civilizations. The journey weaves through the ruins of once‑fertile vineyards, crumbling cisterns, and deserted stone towns, offering a quiet, reflective look at a landscape where history lingers beneath the dust. Along the way, a modest Bedouin escort provides both protection and insight, turning a simple ride into a vivid cultural exchange.

The travelogue then sweeps northward, crossing the storied Mount Hermon with its snow‑capped slopes and verdant valleys, before reaching the bustling streets of Damascus, famed for its “straight street” and layers of biblical memory. The narrative pauses at the impressive Roman remnants of Baalbek, where massive stone blocks hint at lost grandeur, and captures fleeting moments aboard steamships that glide past Naples, Capri, and the silent silhouettes of volcanoes. These early impressions invite listeners to explore a region where the past and present coexist in striking contrast.