Bloudan

Infobox Settlement
official_name = Bloudan
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native_name = بلودان
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pushpin_mapsize =250
pushpin_map_caption =Location in Syria
subdivision_type = Country
subdivision_name = Flag|Syria
subdivision_type1 = Governorate
subdivision_name1 = Rif Dimashq Governorate
subdivision_type2 = District
subdivision_name2 = Zabadani District
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latd=33|latm=44|lats=|latNS=N
longd=36|longm=08|longs=|longEW=E
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elevation_m = 1500
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area_code = 13|13
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Bloudan ( _ar. بلودان) is a Syrian town located 51 kilometers north-west of the Damascus Governorate, in the Rif Dimashq Governorate and has an altitude of about 1500 meters.Bloudan is situated on top of a hill that overlooks the Zabadani plain and is surrounded by mountain forests. Its moderate temperature and low humidity in summer attracts many visitors from Damascus and throughout Syria. It is also a major touristic destination, it is visited by thousands every year, mainly Arabs from Lebanon and the Arab Gulf. In winter, Bloudan is usually snowy, and as a result receives many skiers. Bloudan has many restaurants and hotels, most famous is the Great Bloudan Hotel which hosted the first Arabic conference to discuss the Palestinian issue in 1937. Bloudan is also famous for its many parks and springs, such as the Abuzad, Qas'a, and Hazir springs.

Etymology

The current name, Bloudan, is derived from the Aramaic name "Bil-dan", which means the place of the god "Bil" or "Ba'l". Bloudan is also called the land of almond, because its forests are dominated by almond trees.

History

Bloudan is a very ancient town whose history goes back to the Roman era, as is evident by the paintings and carvings found in southern Bloudan. Remains of an ancient Greek Orthodox monastery and the St. George church are also found in the mountains of eastern Bloudan. The historic St. Elias valley is an ancient part of the town, with buildings that are hundreds of years old.

Modern Bloudan was built in the 18th century and continues to grow today. It is now one of the most visited and highly populated country towns in Syria.

References

* [http://www.syriantours.net/Arch_Details.asp?AcrID=209 Information] , Syrian Tours. Retrieved on 1 December 2006.
* [http://www.syriaatlas.com/modules/news/article.php?storyid=17 بلودان] , Syria Atlas. Retrieved on 1 December 2006.