If you’re a Syrian, you’ve probably seen the hit series Deiaa Dayea and chuckled at the hilarious antics of its characters. But beyond the laughs, there’s a gem you might not have noticed: the breathtaking village where it was filmed, Al Samra. Nestled in the mountains of Kessab in northwestern Syria, this quaint village is the last point on the Mediterranean coast, right at the border with Turkey.
The road leading to Al Samra feels like stepping through a magical gateway into another world. As you get closer, the fresh scent of nature fills the air, and you’ll see the sharp mountains forming a V-shaped valley that shields the village from all sides. These mountains have witnessed natural disasters, such as the landslides of 1942, which tragically claimed many lives.
The homes in Al Samra are simple, built from natural stone in traditional styles that reflect the area’s history and culture. Most of the locals speak Armenian and Arabic, with a local dialect called “Kassbaliya” after Kessab. The people of Al Samra are incredibly warm and welcoming. If you’re lucky, a local might invite you for a cup of Arabic coffee or a warm glass of tea and share stories about the village’s history and old times.
Al Samra isn’t just a beautiful village; it’s also a perfect place to relax and escape the pressures of life. The weather is cool and refreshing, especially in the summer when the city heat can be stifling. The breathtaking views from any high point in the village make you feel like you’re living in a painting. The dense forests emerging from between towering rocks, the clean, nearby sea, and the serene tranquility make Al Samra a truly exceptional experience.
Al Samra, a village lost among the mountains, it’s a place that blends natural beauty with warm hospitality. Anyone who visits leaves a piece of their heart behind and takes away memories and photos they’ll cherish forever.