On from Aleppo our next stop was Crak des Chevaliers, a monstrous crusader citadel that sits atop a hill to the North of Damascus. This citadel that was built by the crusaders and eventually given over to the Arabs when the crusaders left this region is a stunning example of crusader architecture and is in a remarkably good state of repair due at least in part to reparations made by the French in the early part of the last century. It is easy to lose a day here exploring the myriad levels and coridores of this impressive castle, but if nothing else it is worth it for the view from the top towers.

We camped a night at the castle with the hope of getting sunrise photos but heavy rain put pay to that idea. Never mind; on to Damascus!