Al Marqab Castle

Only 6 Km from Banias, this magnificent castle sits on the side of an extinct volcano, over watching the sea. Called Qalaat Al Marqab in Arabic it means Castle of the watchtower. This is where Richard the Lionheart landed at the beginning of the third crusade.

Arwad

The small island of Arwad, off the coast of Tartous, can be visited by a regular boat-ride service. Only 3 Km away, it only takes 20 minutes to get there.

Historical Sites of Tartous
Found in this old crusader port are the remains of a fortress and the cathedral ‘Our Lady of Tortosa’.

History of Tartous
Not much remains of the Phoenician Antaradus (Anti-Aradus – the town facing Arwad), the mainland settlement that was linked to the more important and larger settlement in Arwad.

History of Syria
Often called the Cradle of Civilization and the Gateway to History, Syria has a lot to offer history and the development of civilized man. On the other hand Syria’s natural boundaries did nothing for the security of the land… its strategic location also made it vulnerable and many conquerors and attackers were able to conquer Syria. It has been a great crossroad for trade between the Mediterranean and the East; it exported the Alphabet to the West, and has been linked to Religion from the beginning, from the Semitic Deities to the monotheistic faiths.

Islam

Religion is an important part of any Syrian, whether Muslim or Christian. Muslims in Syria are over 80%, and most Syrian Muslims follow the teachings of their religion quite whole heartedly.

Christianity in Syria
Contrary to general thought, Christianity has quite a strong presence in Syria. Ever since its early years, Christianity has had its roots in Syria.

Workshop on Tourism Between Syria and Spain

Tuesday, May 13, 2008 – 10:45 AM

Damascus (SANA)

Head of Turkish Municipality of Urfa: Palmyra is One of the Best Ancient Cities

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 – 10:55 AM

Palmyra (SANA)

Summer resorts and historical spots

The Syrian seashore is about 175 km long, and its numerous beaches are distinguished by soft sand, unpolluted sea, moderate climate and clear blue sky.