Burj al-Sebi برج الصبي

Burj al-Sebi (برج الصبي) is a single Crusader tower which now overlooks the main coastal highway. It is located on the southern edge of the town of Banias (بانياس) and southwest of Qalaat al-Marqab (قلعة المرقب). Historically, Burj al-Sebi (برج الصبي) protected access to the port and coastal route of Qalaat al-Marqab (قلعة المرقب). It is about 15 square meters and has two floors of accommodation and a basement, and was probably constructed around the same time as Qalaat al-Marqab (قلعة المرقب) itself, around the end of the 12th century or beginning of the 13th century. Built from the same black basalt stone as the castle above, the tower is in a fairly good state of preservation, and worth a stop if visiting the area.

 

Getting There: As it overlooks the coastal highway, basically any public transportation traveling between Tartus (طرطوس) and Banias (بانياس) will pass by the access road leading to the tower. It is about a ten minute walk from the highway up to the tower. It is also within an hour walking distance from central Banias (بانياس) and Qalaat al-Marqab (قلعة المرقب), if time permits.

Coordinates: 35°09’14.57″N / 35°55’38.12″E

Transliteration Variants: Burj al-Sabi, Burj al-Seby, Burj al-Saby

Rating: 4 / 10