Saladinsburg 22.jpg
Sahyun Castle
Jun 5, 2023

Qal'at Salah al-Din, also known as Sahyun Castle, is situated approximately 16 miles (25 km) northeast of Latakia, near the town of al-Haffah. It was named Ṣahyūn, which means "Zion" in Arabic. The Byzantines referred to it as Sigon, and the Franks called it Saône. The site has been fortified since the mid-10th century and was captured by the Byzantine Emperor John I Tzimiskes in 975. It then remained under Byzantine control until around 1108. In the early 12th century, it became part of the Crusader state, the Principality of Antioch, and the Crusaders undertook an extensive building programme. In 1188, it was taken by the forces of Saladin after a three-day siege. Then, in 1287, the castle was again besieged, this time between Mamluk defenders and attackers. In 2006, Qal'at Salah al-Din and Krak des Chevaliers were recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. The site is currently owned by the Syrian government.

 


Do you have a story about this location?

Add your story

Recommended by Metaport