![The highway from Aleppo to Latakia on the Mediterranean](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805565.0bpFYDCp.SyriaMay071601.jpg) The highway from Aleppo to Latakia on the Mediterranean |
![Construction of the new highway connecting Aleppo with Latakia, Idlib Province](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805566.jU7lCNSx.SyriaMay071602.jpg) Construction of the new highway connecting Aleppo with Latakia, Idlib Province |
![Fertile valley, Idlib Province, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805567.33f3Hzw4.SyriaMay071603.jpg) Fertile valley, Idlib Province, Syria |
![The green Syrian highlands around Salma](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805568.woAxGWVb.SyriaMay071606.jpg) The green Syrian highlands around Salma |
![Slinfah, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805569.4cD8GnlJ.SyriaMay071607.jpg) Slinfah, Syria |
![Wildflowers in the Syrian highlands between Salma and Slinfah](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805570.RaDsWbZe.SyriaMay071608.jpg) Wildflowers in the Syrian highlands between Salma and Slinfah |
![Wildflower, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805571.0AON8YPX.SyriaMay071609.jpg) Wildflower, Syria |
![Slinfah, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805572.vsAaobfr.SyriaMay071610.jpg) Slinfah, Syria |
![Road in the highlands near Slinfah, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805573.UE9xMIp5.SyriaMay071612.jpg) Road in the highlands near Slinfah, Syria |
![Slinfah, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805574.l5og2u0J.SyriaMay071613.jpg) Slinfah, Syria |
![There are signs on the mountain roads, not many and navigation can be challenging](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805575.g0tspUwR.SyriaMay071614.jpg) There are signs on the mountain roads, not many and navigation can be challenging |
![Saone Castle, now known as Salahadin Castle, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805576.qMK0aCmg.SyriaMay071616.jpg) Saone Castle, now known as Salahadin Castle, Syria |
![Qalaat Saladin, a crusader castle now named after its conqueror](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805577.tNtkSpok.SyriaMay071619.jpg) Qalaat Saladin, a crusader castle now named after its conqueror |
![Despite the impressive hilltop location, Saladin conquored the castle in 1188](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805578.l4P0H2Ne.SyriaMay071620.jpg) Despite the impressive hilltop location, Saladin conquored the castle in 1188 |
![I visited the main Syrian crusader castles from north to south, a good choice as each subsequent castle is more impressive](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805579.kmr9MbW4.SyriaMay071622.jpg) I visited the main Syrian crusader castles from north to south, a good choice as each subsequent castle is more impressive |
![Qalaat Saladin - Saone Castle, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805580.jUPn0U06.SyriaMay071623.jpg) Qalaat Saladin - Saone Castle, Syria |
![Thick forests around Saladin Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805581.b7WzZK4L.SyriaMay071624.jpg) Thick forests around Saladin Castle |
![Support for the drawbridge, Saladin Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805582.WqHvfZRx.SyriaMay071625.jpg) Support for the drawbridge, Saladin Castle |
![A defensive ditch was cut out of the solid rock along the eastern edge of the castle with one pillar left for the drawbridge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805583.cLEqzxpB.SyriaMay071626.jpg) A defensive ditch was cut out of the solid rock along the eastern edge of the castle with one pillar left for the drawbridge |
![This gorge was cut by hand to protect the castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805585.SohRFY0W.SyriaMay071628.jpg) This gorge was cut by hand to protect the castle |
![Ramparts and towers above the gorge at Saladin Castle (Saone)](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805584.5TvUex2S.SyriaMay071627.jpg) Ramparts and towers above the gorge at Saladin Castle (Saone) |
![Saladin Castle (Saone)](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805586.hDnPfhQp.SyriaMay071629.jpg) Saladin Castle (Saone) |
![Qalaat Saladin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805614.eW3LSKqS.SyriaMay071665.jpg) Qalaat Saladin |
![Steps climbing through the wooded hillside to the modern entrance to Saladin Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805587.SRkVALVn.SyriaMay071630.jpg) Steps climbing through the wooded hillside to the modern entrance to Saladin Castle |
![The modern entrance to Saladin Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805588.wn5Fj6gQ.SyriaMay071632.jpg) The modern entrance to Saladin Castle |
![Qal'at Salahidin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805589.yL1K7qDc.SyriaMay071634.jpg) Qal'at Salahidin |
![Closer up, the ruins are more extensive than the first distant view implies](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805590.vuy8Ztb1.SyriaMay071635.jpg) Closer up, the ruins are more extensive than the first distant view implies |
![The Keep, Saone Castle - Qalaat Saladin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805591.ZBNtFgst.SyriaMay071636.jpg) The Keep, Saone Castle - Qalaat Saladin |
![Saladin Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805592.HWT0z6zy.SyriaMay071637.jpg) Saladin Castle |
![The Keep, Saone Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805594.wRTCcmzQ.SyriaMay071639.jpg) The Keep, Saone Castle |
![Massive vaulted chamber at the base of the keep, Saone Castle - Qalaat Saladin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805595.GnGci5IS.SyriaMay071641.jpg) Massive vaulted chamber at the base of the keep, Saone Castle - Qalaat Saladin |
![Upper chamber in the Keep of Saladin Castle (Saone)](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805596.MiOBskjQ.SyriaMay071642.jpg) Upper chamber in the Keep of Saladin Castle (Saone) |
![View from the top of the Keep, Saladin Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805597.4ADDhuBn.SyriaMay071644.jpg) View from the top of the Keep, Saladin Castle |
![Saladin Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805598.bl8GnxBv.SyriaMay071645.jpg) Saladin Castle |
![Looking out where the drawbridge used to cross the gorge](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805599.OyijmgQu.SyriaMay071646.jpg) Looking out where the drawbridge used to cross the gorge |
![The hand-cut gorge forming the eastern defense of Saone Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805600.hGv4KKUH.SyriaMay071647.jpg) The hand-cut gorge forming the eastern defense of Saone Castle |
![Arrow slit, Saone Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805601.CE8RLdoI.SyriaMay071648.jpg) Arrow slit, Saone Castle |
![Qalaat Saladin - Saone Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805602.rw3esve5.SyriaMay071649.jpg) Qalaat Saladin - Saone Castle |
![Qalaat Saladin - Saone Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805603.rspQRNkD.SyriaMay071651.jpg) Qalaat Saladin - Saone Castle |
![Qalaat Saladin - Saone Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805604.A1NQ73H9.SyriaMay071652.jpg) Qalaat Saladin - Saone Castle |
![The mosque built after Saladin's conquest of Saone Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805593.jbaIZlBK.SyriaMay071638.jpg) The mosque built after Saladin's conquest of Saone Castle |
![Minaret, Qalaat Saladin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805605.okDHsxob.SyriaMay071653.jpg) Minaret, Qalaat Saladin |
![Mosque, Qalaat Saladin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805607.wwfPVRUF.SyriaMay071656.jpg) Mosque, Qalaat Saladin |
![Mosque, Qalaat Saladin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805608.3fKBPG18.SyriaMay071657.jpg) Mosque, Qalaat Saladin |
![Baths, Qalaat Saladin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805606.O8Sd5Ymv.SyriaMay071655.jpg) Baths, Qalaat Saladin |
![Baths, Qalaat Saladin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805609.sIjGLxol.SyriaMay071658.jpg) Baths, Qalaat Saladin |
![Baths, Qalaat Saladin](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805610.GQE47zkb.SyriaMay071659.jpg) Baths, Qalaat Saladin |
![Cistern, Saone Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805611.TaXIzEKc.SyriaMay071661.jpg) Cistern, Saone Castle |
![View of the lower courtyard where Saladin breached the poorly defended walls in 1188](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805612.hzWWFvvh.SyriaMay071662.jpg) View of the lower courtyard where Saladin breached the poorly defended walls in 1188 |
![Ruined wall separating the lower courtyard from the main castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805613.rUdZFSWc.SyriaMay071664.jpg) Ruined wall separating the lower courtyard from the main castle |
![The industrialized Syrian coast at Banias](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805615.AD67Uvyq.SyriaMay071667.jpg) The industrialized Syrian coast at Banias |
![Exit from the coastal highway for Marqeb Citadel - Qalaat Al-Marqeb](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805616.0PnG6VHM.SyriaMay071668.jpg) Exit from the coastal highway for Marqeb Citadel - Qalaat Al-Marqeb |
![Marqeb Castle sits high on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805617.x9iNryIC.SyriaMay071669.jpg) Marqeb Castle sits high on a hilltop overlooking the Mediterranean |
![Marqeb Castle is also a ruin, but with more substantial remains than Saone Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805618.Ww1tybkS.SyriaMay071670.jpg) Marqeb Castle is also a ruin, but with more substantial remains than Saone Castle |
![Marqeb Castle held out until 1285, nearly a century longer than Saone](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805619.jBKObD02.SyriaMay071671.jpg) Marqeb Castle held out until 1285, nearly a century longer than Saone |
![Markab Castil](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805621.bGxmBON2.SyriaMay071672.jpg) Markab Castil |
![Qalaat Al-Marqeb, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805622.lT5RALEQ.SyriaMay071674.jpg) Qalaat Al-Marqeb, Syria |
![The view of the Syrian coast on a not-very-clear day](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805623.OPTVjeId.SyriaMay071676.jpg) The view of the Syrian coast on a not-very-clear day |
![View of from Marqeb Citadel, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805624.hRz1Z51g.SyriaMay071677.jpg) View of from Marqeb Citadel, Syria |
![These are greenhouses, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805625.G1ghbCHA.SyriaMay071678.jpg) These are greenhouses, Syria |
![Al Marqeb Citadel, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805626.5fVTb84d.SyriaMay071680.jpg) Al Marqeb Citadel, Syria |
![The main gatehouse to Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805627.dSxuI2yf.SyriaMay071681.jpg) The main gatehouse to Marqeb Castle |
![Marqeb Castle was a major stronghold of the Knights Hospitallers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805628.kByVwnup.SyriaMay071682.jpg) Marqeb Castle was a major stronghold of the Knights Hospitallers |
![Marqeb withstood sieges in 1204 and 1280](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805629.87BTcvkA.SyriaMay071683.jpg) Marqeb withstood sieges in 1204 and 1280 |
![In 1285, shortly before the Crusaders ultimate withdrawal from the Middle East, the castle fell to Sultan Qalaun](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805630.qjIarRvK.SyriaMay071684.jpg) In 1285, shortly before the Crusaders ultimate withdrawal from the Middle East, the castle fell to Sultan Qalaun |
![Latakia fell in 1287, Tartus in 1291, and finally the island of Arwad in 1302](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805631.ggHKHBLr.SyriaMay071685.jpg) Latakia fell in 1287, Tartus in 1291, and finally the island of Arwad in 1302 |
![Arched gateway, Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805632.9THF4mKH.SyriaMay071686.jpg) Arched gateway, Marqeb Castle |
![Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805633.o6uCgy6L.SyriaMay071687.jpg) Marqeb Castle |
![Stars of David on an Ottoman era building at Marqeb](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805634.FPc2Lny6.SyriaMay071689.jpg) Stars of David on an Ottoman era building at Marqeb |
![The main courtyard and massive chapel of Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805635.7lxXRxpm.SyriaMay071690.jpg) The main courtyard and massive chapel of Marqeb Castle |
![Side door to the Marqeb Castle chapel](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805636.1JiifJxp.SyriaMay071691.jpg) Side door to the Marqeb Castle chapel |
![Chapel of Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805637.c7y6t5EO.SyriaMay071692.jpg) Chapel of Marqeb Castle |
![Chapel of Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805638.GLTAYStl.SyriaMay071693.jpg) Chapel of Marqeb Castle |
![Chapel of Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805639.zzmRoIoN.SyriaMay071695.jpg) Chapel of Marqeb Castle |
![Front entrance, Marqeb Castle chapel](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805642.6ir90nG8.SyriaMay071702.jpg) Front entrance, Marqeb Castle chapel |
![Chamber above the cistern with several wells](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805640.CfhrLNHr.SyriaMay071697.jpg) Chamber above the cistern with several wells |
![Knight's Hall, Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805641.qJyRHYUf.SyriaMay071699.jpg) Knight's Hall, Marqeb Castle |
![Knight's Hall, Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805643.C9pCjFHk.SyriaMay071703.jpg) Knight's Hall, Marqeb Castle |
![View of Marqeb Castle from the chapel roof](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805644.cz5LPLjd.SyriaMay071704.jpg) View of Marqeb Castle from the chapel roof |
![View of the Syrian countryside around Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805645.zc8fi1dR.SyriaMay071705.jpg) View of the Syrian countryside around Marqeb Castle |
![View of the outer defenses of Marqeb Castle from the chapel](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805646.lDB9QA8H.SyriaMay071707.jpg) View of the outer defenses of Marqeb Castle from the chapel |
![Qalaat Al-Marqeb, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805647.nT3QeVUR.SyriaMay071708.jpg) Qalaat Al-Marqeb, Syria |
![Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805648.ZGwaYvHN.SyriaMay071709.jpg) Marqeb Castle |
![Overgrown ruin, Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805649.JP04KyWn.SyriaMay071710.jpg) Overgrown ruin, Marqeb Castle |
![Large vaulted chamber, Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805650.NdMEOmA9.SyriaMay071711.jpg) Large vaulted chamber, Marqeb Castle |
![Marqeb Castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805651.UmUMz1tA.SyriaMay071712.jpg) Marqeb Castle |
![Krak des Chevaliers on a foggy night](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805671.4rdJpbok.SyriaMay071743.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers on a foggy night |
![The mountainous area around Krak des Chevaliers is still heavily Christian](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805672.dAMrma6E.SyriaMay071744.jpg) The mountainous area around Krak des Chevaliers is still heavily Christian |
![Hotel Al-Riad, 1-star, inexpensive, clean and friendly](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805677.2B80QZHm.SyriaMay071754.jpg) Hotel Al-Riad, 1-star, inexpensive, clean and friendly |
![Standard Syrian hotel breakfast, Al-Riad Hotel](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805673.t2WlZyFS.SyriaMay071749.jpg) Standard Syrian hotel breakfast, Al-Riad Hotel |
![View from the Al-Riad Hotel](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805675.vBTvRDWN.SyriaMay071751.jpg) View from the Al-Riad Hotel |
![View of the Krak des Chevaliers from the Al-Riad Hotel](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805674.ncRguho5.SyriaMay071750.jpg) View of the Krak des Chevaliers from the Al-Riad Hotel |
![Not the best of days weatherwise....](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805676.ZFSD9AjQ.SyriaMay071752.jpg) Not the best of days weatherwise.... |
![Imposing hilltop location of the Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805680.8QxZPlTf.SyriaMay071758.jpg) Imposing hilltop location of the Krak des Chevaliers |
![Al Wadi Hotel - 4 (Syrian) stars](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805678.bmNNrFJ5.SyriaMay071756.jpg) Al Wadi Hotel - 4 (Syrian) stars |
![Deir Mar Gerjos - Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805684.J1snsMcc.SyriaMay071762.jpg) Deir Mar Gerjos - Monastery of St. George |
![Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805683.fWcRUJWv.SyriaMay071761.jpg) Monastery of St. George |
![Monastery of St. George, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805685.ELlzXLXN.SyriaMay071763.jpg) Monastery of St. George, Syria |
![Deir Mar Gerjos, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805686.EVGnGuEv.SyriaMay071764.jpg) Deir Mar Gerjos, Syria |
![Monastery of St. George, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805687.QXfpt5oC.SyriaMay071765.jpg) Monastery of St. George, Syria |
![Monastery of St. George, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805688.ghkRhRWk.SyriaMay071766.jpg) Monastery of St. George, Syria |
![Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805689.QUSKmskV.SyriaMay071767.jpg) Monastery of St. George |
![Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805690.4aFuBipg.SyriaMay071768.jpg) Monastery of St. George |
![Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805691.vC8XnG45.SyriaMay071769.jpg) Monastery of St. George |
![SyriaMay07 1770.jpg](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805692.4UZkKamC.SyriaMay071770.jpg) SyriaMay07 1770.jpg |
![Cloister, Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805693.WTndPPLg.SyriaMay071771.jpg) Cloister, Monastery of St. George |
![Church of the Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805694.dtEGMjP7.SyriaMay071772.jpg) Church of the Monastery of St. George |
![Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805695.dJMSjU87.SyriaMay071773.jpg) Monastery of St. George |
![Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805696.B4OvF4kz.SyriaMay071774.jpg) Monastery of St. George |
![Orthodox priest, Monastery of St. George](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805697.63bug0YI.SyriaMay071775.jpg) Orthodox priest, Monastery of St. George |
![The Arabic name for Krak des Chevaliers is Qalaat Al-Hosn](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805681.fDXAKjmv.SyriaMay071759.jpg) The Arabic name for Krak des Chevaliers is Qalaat Al-Hosn |
![The Arabic name for Krak des Chevaliers is Qalat Al Hosn - most signs use tha tname](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805682.u4ISF00L.SyriaMay071760.jpg) The Arabic name for Krak des Chevaliers is Qalat Al Hosn - most signs use tha tname |
![Only a few signs use Crac des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805725.IktbtzEf.SyriaMay071804.jpg) Only a few signs use Crac des Chevaliers |
![Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805698.kLvllTCX.SyriaMay071778.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers |
![Village at the base of the Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805699.VlPmQpFY.SyriaMay071779.jpg) Village at the base of the Krak des Chevaliers |
![Krak des Chevaliers, enlarged by the Knights Hospitallers starting in 1142](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805700.YaRZIuvX.SyriaMay071780.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers, enlarged by the Knights Hospitallers starting in 1142 |
![Crac des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805701.wlg7jxIx.SyriaMay071781.jpg) Crac des Chevaliers |
![Qalaat al-Hosn - the Crusader castle was built on the site of an earlier fortification](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805702.frwtS29x.SyriaMay071782.jpg) Qalaat al-Hosn - the Crusader castle was built on the site of an earlier fortification |
![Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805703.MwpJXB0n.SyriaMay071783.jpg) Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers |
![The bridge is a narrow aqueduct which feeds the cistern](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805704.S9AFLJCl.SyriaMay071784.jpg) The bridge is a narrow aqueduct which feeds the cistern |
![Krak des Chevaliers withstood a siege by Saladin in 1183](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805705.xAkPh5ri.SyriaMay071785.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers withstood a siege by Saladin in 1183 |
![As imposing as it is, the Krak fell to Sultan Baybars in 1271](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805706.8QK1UYiO.SyriaMay071786.jpg) As imposing as it is, the Krak fell to Sultan Baybars in 1271 |
![Baibars' siege of Crac des Chevaliers lasted only 5 weeks](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805707.BhkuZO89.SyriaMay071787.jpg) Baibars' siege of Crac des Chevaliers lasted only 5 weeks |
![Krak des Chevaliers is the best preserved of all the Crusader castles](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805708.thk3hPEj.SyriaMay071788.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers is the best preserved of all the Crusader castles |
![Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805709.dnwCVVct.SyriaMay071789.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers |
![Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805710.7yqpZuqY.SyriaMay071790.jpg) Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers, Syria |
![Aqueduct of Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805711.fuRGWePN.SyriaMay071791.jpg) Aqueduct of Krak des Chevaliers |
![Drive up the hill past the main entrance for this famous view of the Krak](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805712.CXm3D09w.SyriaMay071792.jpg) Drive up the hill past the main entrance for this famous view of the Krak |
![Krak des Chevaliers sits on a hill 650m above sea level](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805713.X7btCCr3.SyriaMay071793.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers sits on a hill 650m above sea level |
![Wildflowers near the Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805714.IRazCyKK.SyriaMay071794.jpg) Wildflowers near the Krak des Chevaliers |
![Krak des Chevaliers with wildflowers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805715.69135rJq.SyriaMay071795.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers with wildflowers |
![Syrian wildflower](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805716.27NEpIlf.SyriaMay071796.jpg) Syrian wildflower |
![Flowers and the Krak](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805717.EE67jlaT.SyriaMay071797.jpg) Flowers and the Krak |
![Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805718.m2goLUMn.SyriaMay071798.jpg) Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers |
![Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805719.sAArSGaq.SyriaMay071799.jpg) Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers |
![Crac des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805720.LsVWvGqW.SyriaMay071800.jpg) Crac des Chevaliers |
![Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers, Syria](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805722.K2TcOvY1.SyriaMay071801.jpg) Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers, Syria |
![Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805723.wRDA8J9M.SyriaMay071802.jpg) Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers |
![Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805724.3Tj2fQ3E.SyriaMay071803.jpg) Qalaat al-Hosn - Krak des Chevaliers |
![Alawite village below the Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805726.20SESTqy.SyriaMay071805.jpg) Alawite village below the Krak des Chevaliers |
![Ramparts near the parking lot](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805727.5S6R9nvx.SyriaMay071807.jpg) Ramparts near the parking lot |
![Post-Crusader Arabic inscriptions over the gate to Qalaat Al-Hosn](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805729.ur9Qe4ni.SyriaMay071808.jpg) Post-Crusader Arabic inscriptions over the gate to Qalaat Al-Hosn |
![The main gate, Crac des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805730.nwj5zEBZ.SyriaMay071809.jpg) The main gate, Crac des Chevaliers |
![Informational sign at Le Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805731.do2uKbjP.SyriaMay071810.jpg) Informational sign at Le Krak des Chevaliers |
![Entrance ramp, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805732.gV6HHdR2.SyriaMay071812.jpg) Entrance ramp, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Entrance ramp, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805733.OAAXS8Qe.SyriaMay071813.jpg) Entrance ramp, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Medieval artillery](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805735.dqtGq1f1.SyriaMay071815.jpg) Medieval artillery |
![Fountain in the Hammam, a post-Crusader enhancement](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805737.YnO9tr36.SyriaMay071819.jpg) Fountain in the Hammam, a post-Crusader enhancement |
![Bring a flashlight to explore dark passages like this leading down from the Hammam](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805736.HoQjmsWn.SyriaMay071818.jpg) Bring a flashlight to explore dark passages like this leading down from the Hammam |
![Sloping wall leading up to the Keep and Master Chamber, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805738.GtnPmAku.SyriaMay071820.jpg) Sloping wall leading up to the Keep and Master Chamber, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Reservoir, Crac des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805740.fMUfKa2o.SyriaMay071822.jpg) Reservoir, Crac des Chevaliers |
![Passageway along the southeast wall](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805741.tBlejMXR.SyriaMay071825.jpg) Passageway along the southeast wall |
![The second stable's main entrance is to the right](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805739.kX0uclaS.SyriaMay071821.jpg) The second stable's main entrance is to the right |
![The second stable running the length of the southern wall, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805742.oJk3TA3b.SyriaMay071826.jpg) The second stable running the length of the southern wall, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Southwest corner tower](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805743.Zld2gqa5.SyriaMay071828.jpg) Southwest corner tower |
![Post-conquest Arabic inscriptions, southwest corner tower](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805744.RXba19My.SyriaMay071829.jpg) Post-conquest Arabic inscriptions, southwest corner tower |
![Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805745.OIeEoKF2.SyriaMay071830.jpg) Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805746.nYqra0JU.SyriaMay071831.jpg) Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805747.ADD7m0bI.SyriaMay071833.jpg) Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Sloping inner south wall of the Keep and Master Chamber](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805748.4JmgGbw0.SyriaMay071834.jpg) Sloping inner south wall of the Keep and Master Chamber |
![The inner southeast corner with the gate leading to the main ramp](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805749.b7IZSKGt.SyriaMay071835.jpg) The inner southeast corner with the gate leading to the main ramp |
![Upper level, outer south fortifications](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805750.pZFDKly5.SyriaMay071836.jpg) Upper level, outer south fortifications |
![The Keep, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805751.F4okse5g.SyriaMay071837.jpg) The Keep, Krak des Chevaliers |
![View of the modern village below Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805752.I4HQy0yi.SyriaMay071838.jpg) View of the modern village below Krak des Chevaliers |
![Until the end of the 19th Century, the villagers lived inside the castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805753.ZmDzAZrQ.SyriaMay071839.jpg) Until the end of the 19th Century, the villagers lived inside the castle |
![Upper passageway, southeast wall](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805754.85gNNsPF.SyriaMay071840.jpg) Upper passageway, southeast wall |
![The Hammam did not stand the test of time](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805755.i41vIHCN.SyriaMay071841.jpg) The Hammam did not stand the test of time |
![Krak des Chevaliers - Qalaat al-Hosn](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805756.jLqBTDWo.SyriaMay071842.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers - Qalaat al-Hosn |
![Gatehouse between the outer wards and the keep](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805757.yH81ZKfv.SyriaMay071843.jpg) Gatehouse between the outer wards and the keep |
![The Square Tower, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805758.CWpS3E3O.SyriaMay071844.jpg) The Square Tower, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805759.SyKmhhDD.SyriaMay071845.jpg) Krak des Chevaliers |
![Southern castle ward with reservoir](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805760.oCj1Tzjp.SyriaMay071846.jpg) Southern castle ward with reservoir |
![Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805761.Hz92oJyg.SyriaMay071847.jpg) Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805762.nykfwYZO.SyriaMay071848.jpg) Aqueduct, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Staircase](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805763.WxMBj1ji.SyriaMay071849.jpg) Staircase |
![Surprisingly large windows in one of the outer towers, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805764.L1Sp5b4z.SyriaMay071851.jpg) Surprisingly large windows in one of the outer towers, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Another dark stairway leading to the lower levels](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805765.tjfXDPzp.SyriaMay071852.jpg) Another dark stairway leading to the lower levels |
![Ramp to the Keep](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805766.bymnj2Ib.SyriaMay071853.jpg) Ramp to the Keep |
![90-degree left turn at the top of the upper ramp to the Keep](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805767.Cnh02QFO.SyriaMay071855.jpg) 90-degree left turn at the top of the upper ramp to the Keep |
![Upper Court with Loggia and Chapter Room](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805768.ElUcn2HK.SyriaMay071856.jpg) Upper Court with Loggia and Chapter Room |
![Loggia window, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805769.K1fAVKqC.SyriaMay071857.jpg) Loggia window, Krak des Chevaliers |
![SyriaMay07 1858.jpg](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805770.lxiJjQKX.SyriaMay071858.jpg) SyriaMay07 1858.jpg |
![SyriaMay07 1860.jpg](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805771.T1ibYmUm.SyriaMay071860.jpg) SyriaMay07 1860.jpg |
![SyriaMay07 1861.jpg](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805772.FnuLNwrw.SyriaMay071861.jpg) SyriaMay07 1861.jpg |
![North end of the Long Hall, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805773.3s8P8dkj.SyriaMay071862.jpg) North end of the Long Hall, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Chapel, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805775.C0db4tck.SyriaMay071866.jpg) Chapel, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Minbar in the coverted Crusader chapel](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805774.W1ULRhZl.SyriaMay071865.jpg) Minbar in the coverted Crusader chapel |
![Crusader Chapel converted to a mosque](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805776.RIjzWc7E.SyriaMay071867.jpg) Crusader Chapel converted to a mosque |
![Upper Courtyard and Keep, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805777.97ICnZvD.SyriaMay071868.jpg) Upper Courtyard and Keep, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Upper Courtyard, Qalaat al-Hosn](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805778.jhE9mzTl.SyriaMay071869.jpg) Upper Courtyard, Qalaat al-Hosn |
![Storerooms off the Upper Court, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805780.mlCJbyeW.SyriaMay071871.jpg) Storerooms off the Upper Court, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Storerooms off the Upper Court, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805781.UzKEYp93.SyriaMay071872.jpg) Storerooms off the Upper Court, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Modern village below the castle](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805782.vJr6UpkY.SyriaMay071873.jpg) Modern village below the castle |
![Keep, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805783.Njh8Y8r7.SyriaMay071875.jpg) Keep, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Viewof the Upper Court from the Keep, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805784.gTm2vyhQ.SyriaMay071877.jpg) Viewof the Upper Court from the Keep, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Viewof the Upper Court from the Keep, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805785.YACkDM3A.SyriaMay071878.jpg) Viewof the Upper Court from the Keep, Krak des Chevaliers |
![View SE from the Keep, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805786.9jNYM4Kh.SyriaMay071880.jpg) View SE from the Keep, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Master Chamber, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805787.q1mHnbin.SyriaMay071883.jpg) Master Chamber, Krak des Chevaliers |
![View of the Keep, southern ward and Reservoir, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805788.6gZp7wl8.SyriaMay071885.jpg) View of the Keep, southern ward and Reservoir, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Outer western ward looking north from the Master Chamber, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805789.COAx6oer.SyriaMay071887.jpg) Outer western ward looking north from the Master Chamber, Krak des Chevaliers |
![View from the Restaurant Terrace, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805790.dqULX73V.SyriaMay071888.jpg) View from the Restaurant Terrace, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Leaving via the Upper Ramp, Krak des Chevaliers](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805791.ce80aD6l.SyriaMay071890.jpg) Leaving via the Upper Ramp, Krak des Chevaliers |
![Driving back to Damascus](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805792.qZpyGLTu.SyriaMay071891.jpg) Driving back to Damascus |
![Driving back to Damascus](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/79805793.wcCK3ejD.SyriaMay071893.jpg) Driving back to Damascus |
![President Hafez al-Assad looks over the coastal highway](https://a4.pbase.com/o6/93/329493/1/80076295.R0yXyoMb.SyriaMay071713.jpg) President Hafez al-Assad looks over the coastal highway |