Forteresse d’Arima

Some historical sources suggest that Al-‘Areema Castle was once part of the ancient kingdom of Simyra, affiliated with the Aramaean city-state of Ugarit. Excavated pottery shards found at the site indicate continued occupation during the Roman and Byzantine periods.

In 1142, the castle came under the control of the Knights Hospitaller, who fortified it as a defensive outpost. It was later recaptured by the Muslim leader Nur al-Din Zangi following intense battles with the Crusaders between 1166 and 1167.

Despite suffering extensive damage from an earthquake in 1170, the castle remained under Crusader control until the final decline of their presence in the region.