Qalaat al-Marqab قلعة المرقب

Qalaat al-Marqab (قلعة المرقب) is a massive Crusader castle dominating a hilltop overlooking the main coastal highway between Tartus (طرطوس) and Lattakia (اللاذقية), just outside the town of Banias (بانياس). One of the most impressive castles in Syria, it should be considered a must-see if visiting the coastal region.

 

Getting There: It is easy to visit the castle from either Tartus (طرطوس) or Lattakia (اللاذقية), first by taking a microbus to Banias (بانياس), a small port town along the coast below the castle. Once in Banias (بانياس) microbuses traveling to nearby mountain villages make their way passed the castle, a trip which takes about ten minutes. It is close enough to hike from Banias (بانياس), but you might prefer hiking downhill rather than uphill.

Coordinates: 35°09’07.40″N / 35°56’58.72″E

Transliteration Variants: Qalaat al-Markab

Rating: 9 / 10