Latakia

Overview

Latakia is the most important port of Syria. The town has a sizable Christian minority although it has shrunk considerably over the years. The atmosphere on the coast is probably a more relaxed than anywhere else in the country.

The town itsalf is not very beautiful, buit it is an important travel hub. You can go to Cyprus by boat or to Turkey or Lebanon by bus from here.

In the city itself there is a pleasant walk along the corniche and the adjacent colorfully planted avenues; it is tempting to linger longer in the magnificent public gardens, right by the sea, with their fine palm trees and clumps of oleanders. There are not many ancient remains: four columns and a Roman arch from the time of Septimus Severus (circa 200A.D.), a triumphal arch on four massive supports at the bottom of an avenue in the south of the city and a regional museum recently installed in the ancient Khan al Dukhan monument.

Furthermore, Lattakia is a perfect base for excursions throughout Syria's coastal regions where beaches, mountains, lush countryside, archaeological sites and traces of the Crusaders all lie within a short distance.

History