Tartus

Tartus, Syria:

• Cathedral of Our Lady of Tartus (Tartus National Museum): A former Crusader cathedral built around one of the earliest chapels dedicated to the Virgin Mary; now a museum housing Phoenician, Roman, and Byzantine artifacts.
• Templar Fortress: A powerful 12th-century stronghold built by the Knights Templar on the Mediterranean coast, featuring imposing thick walls and offering panoramic sea views.
• Arwad Island: Syria's only inhabited island, a short boat ride from Tartus, preserving its ancient Phoenician heritage, Crusader-era walls, and traditional fishing culture.
• Amrit Archaeological Site: An exceptionally preserved Phoenician city just south of Tartus, featuring a unique sea temple carved into rock and an ancient stadium predating Roman amphitheaters.
• Marqab Castle (Qalaat al-Marqab): A massive basalt Crusader fortress located on a volcanic hill north of Tartus, renowned for its well-preserved halls and sweeping Mediterranean views.
• Old City and Souq al-Qadim: A medieval quarter of narrow, winding alleys and a traditional Ottoman-era market where visitors can find local crafts, spices, and authentic coastal Syrian goods.
• Al-Bassah Archaeological Site: An open-air site north of Tartus containing layered ruins from the Roman and Byzantine periods, including mosaic floors and early church remains.