Centuries old castles which seem to leap from the pages of a Boys’ Own Adventure book dot the coast of Syria. Two of the world’s most famous fighters, Richard The Lionheart and Salahdin, met during the Crusades. Not far from the Lebanese border sits the mighty and imposing Krek des Chevalier.
One of several dreamworthy castles in Syria, the famous Salah Ed Din (Salahdin) defended against attacking Crusaders including Richard The Lionheart.
Imagine the great armies on horseback, wielding swords and flinging arrows.
Lattakia, Syria, in better times. Its Mediterranian location has made it wealthy through trade, as well as an important military foothold.
Two girls in Lattakia's old city.
Washing dries on a typical apartment block in Lattakia's old city.
An upmarket restaurant in Latakia, Syria, which has always been wealthier than other parts of the country.
The hillside location of crusader castle Krek Des Chevaliers, gave superb views of advancing armies.
Strong arched tunnels lead to store rooms, kitchens, armaments and stables.
Defending armies were able to hold out for months.
Military and stragic designs aside, Krek also boasts fine arched interiors.
High and thick walls, defended by archers from above made Krek des Chevaliers almost impossible to take.
A masterpiece of military design and a superb location. Krek des Chevaliers.
Shops spill into the street in the town of Tartus.
I guess that Krak has survived the civil war, although it must have been damaged considerably, by all sides.
Long walls which were never breached stretch out to the hills the guarded.
Light breaks in through the stone roof of Krak De Chevaliars.