The Orontes River is a significant waterway in the Middle East, flowing through parts of Syria, Lebanon, and Turkey. It stretches approximately 571 kilometers (355 miles) and is known for its historical importance, as it has supported agriculture and settlements for thousands of years. The river originates in the Anti-Lebanon Mountains and eventually empties into the Mediterranean Sea. It passes through several cities, including Homs and Antioch, and is characterized by its winding course and varying flow rates, which can be influenced by seasonal rainfall and snowmelt.