Noria al Jessrieh in Hama 1962

This image shows one of the famous noria, or wooden water wheels of Hama. Although they were once numerous along the Orontes River, few survive to the present day and they are believed to date back to at least the C13th. However, since the wood is replaced with new insertions as it wears away or rots, it is debateable how much ancient wood still remains in these wheels. They are particularly prized for their distinctive 'song' made by the creaking of the wood as the wheel turns.

Type: Architecture
Tags: 1962, Architecture, C13th, Hama, Noria, Orontes, Syria, Wood