Photo: Anas Al Rifai
The Byzantine-era castle in Syria, Fortress of Saladin, is in danger of collapse following the deadly earthquakes in February.
Source: Byzantine-era Castle in Syria at Risk After Earthquake
The Fortress of Saladin is an architectural treasure with Byzantine roots in the 10th century rebuilt by Frankish Crusaders in the 12th century.
Source: Syrian castle among quake-hit UNESCO heritage sites at risk
Clutching a small saw, Syrian volunteer Rana Jreij cut away at bushes growing up the centuries-old walls of one of the world’s most famous Crusader castles, Krak des Chevaliers.
Source: Syrians spruce up famed Crusader castle, Krak des Chevaliers, after years of war
Syria’s Crusader castle Krak des Chevaliers, which has withstood centuries of conflict, religious division and occupation, is again welcoming visitors…
Source: Inside the medieval castle that survived a 21st century war
Syrian specialists have proceeded with the works to reconstruct Krak des Chevaliers castle, which was occupied by militants during the fighting in the Syrian city of Homs…
Source: Syria begins reconstruction of UNESCO World Heritage castle near Homs
Source: Krak Des Chevaliers
Syria – Crac des Chevaliers and Qal’at Salah El-Din
It was built in 1142. But the magnificent Crac de Chevaliers in Syria may not survive the war presently engulfing it.
High on a hill, almost halfway between Homs, Syria, and the Mediterranean Sea, sits a grand and formidable castle. All imposing turrets and towers, winding parapets, and massive stretches of limestone walls, the Crac des Chevaliers is the stuff of Disney-worthy dreams.
One can only imagine the historical events that this castle has witnessed from that hilltop since the Crusaders began constructing it in 1142 as their latest and greatest fortress.
But it is in the most recent of these world-shaking crises—the Syrian Civil War—that the UNESCO World Heritage Site has suffered what may be irreparable damage.
Photo: AP
The Crac des Chevaliers has fallen victim to the chaos of Syria’s civil war following a siege between Government forces and villagers and rebels using the castle for refuge.
Source: How Crusaders’ castle became part of siege in Syrian civil war
Photo: AP
Syrian government forces show reporters around the recently recaptured Crusader castle Krak des Chevaliers, where significant war damage is visible.
Source: Syria Crusader castle Krak des Chevaliers has war scars
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Aizudin Zainal
IU7. UNL.
All About World Heritage Sites 