Citadel of Tartus

Located northwest of Tartus, the precise date of the castle’s construction remains undetermined. The fortress was occupied by the Byzantines in the 10th century AD, subsequently falling under Frankish control. During the reigns of Nur ad-Din Zengi and Salah ad-Din al-Ayyubi, the Arabs briefly reclaimed the castle for short intervals. Later, in 1276 AD, the Mamluks restored their dominion over the fortress.

Presently, visitors can observe several defensive structures and ramparts; however, prolonged neglect has led to considerable deterioration of many sections.

Conservation status: Neglected.