Norias of Hama
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The Norias of Hama are a remarkable series of 17 historic water-raising machines located along the Orontes River in the city of Hama, Syria. These large undershot water wheels feature box-like water collection compartments embedded around their rims, which scoop water as the river flows beneath, lifting it to the top where it empties into aqueducts. Originally built for irrigation, these norias supplied water to buildings, gardens, and farmland. Many date back to medieval times, with two of the largest constructed in 1361 and 1453 CE respectively, once holding the record as the tallest water wheels in the world for nearly 500 years. Although no longer used for water supply, they remain a celebrated example of advanced medieval Muslim hydraulic engineering, admired for their impressive size, intricate wooden craftsmanship, and the distinctive sounds they produce as they turn. The norias are maintained by families of skilled carpenters who have preserved the tradition of repair and rebuilding over centuries. Their construction incorporates various woods such as walnut for axles and bearings, and poplar, pine, and oak for other parts. The water wheels range in size from 7 to 21 meters in diameter and can deliver between 50,000 to 200,000 liters of water per hour. In 2006, the Noria al-Muhammadiya was recognized internationally as a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark, underscoring its technological significance.
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Consejo: Visit the Norias of Hama during the cooler months of spring or autumn for a more comfortable experience. While the norias no longer function as water suppliers, their turning wheels provide a captivating sight and sound. It is advisable to check local schedules or guides for the best viewing times. Advance tickets or reservations are generally not required, but hiring a knowledgeable local guide can enrich the visit with historical context. Visitors may inquire about any available discounts for groups or students at local tourist offices.
Datos interesantes
- •The Noria al-Muhammadiya, built in 1361 CE, was designated a Historic Mechanical Engineering Landmark by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers in 2006.
- •For nearly 500 years, two of Hama's norias were the tallest water wheels in the world, reaching up to 21 meters in diameter.
- •The norias can deliver between 50,000 and 200,000 liters of water per hour depending on their size.
- •The wooden components use different types of wood: walnut for axles and bearings, poplar, pine, and oak for other parts.
- •The water collection boxes on the wheels range in capacity from 4 to 12 liters each.
Historia
The Norias of Hama have origins that possibly date back to the Roman or Byzantine periods, with evidence suggesting norias existed near Hama as early as the 4th century CE.
Historical records confirm many were operating by the late 12th century, with the two largest norias constructed in 1361 (Noria al-Muhammadiya) and 1453 CE (Noria al-Ma’muriyya).
The area came under Muslim Arab control in the 7th century CE, during which technological mastery and improvements were applied to existing water-raising devices.
The norias have been continuously maintained and rebuilt over the centuries, with wooden parts replaced approximately every 15 years by skilled carpenters from families dedicated to this craft, preserving the tradition to the present day.
Guía del lugar
Noria al-Muhammadiya1361
The oldest and largest surviving noria, built in 1361 CE, standing 21 meters tall. It features intricate wooden craftsmanship and is a symbol of medieval hydraulic engineering excellence.
Noria al-Ma’muriyya1453
Constructed in 1453 CE, this large noria is another key example of the advanced water-raising technology in Hama, slightly smaller than al-Muhammadiya but equally impressive in scale and design.
Other Historic Norias
The remaining norias vary in size from 7 to 17 meters in diameter, all featuring the characteristic box-like water collection compartments and wooden construction maintained by traditional carpenters.