Kafr Daryan

Monastery of Yonan the Stylite
Kafr Daryan Temple
Place of Worship — 2nd Century AD

The temple at Kafr Daryan is a rare example of the peripteral architectural style in northern Syria, characterized by a colonnade surrounding the central chamber. Although partially ruined, the site retains four standing columns, a pictorial frieze, and a naos (inner sanctuary).

Perched atop a stone terrace in the Idlib Mountains, the temple stands as the region’s only surviving example of this classical design. Built around 150 AD, it was dedicated to the worship of Zeus Bomos, as indicated by a Greek inscription now housed in the Aleppo Museum.

The naos is framed by four Corinthian columns. Despite damage to the pediment roof, the columns remain stable thanks to internal reinforcements that support their structure.

Recent conservation studies have recommended stabilizing the columns using lead sleeves to prevent erosion, and installing wooden fencing around the site to restrict access by heavy machinery—measures aimed at preserving this significant archaeological landmark in Idlib.