Syria’s Latakia Governorate is steeped in history, with evidence of human settlement stretching back to the Neolithic era. Located in the northwest of the country, Latakia is the fourth-largest governorate in Syria and is home to a number of important archaeological sites. In this article, we explore the history of Latakia, from its ancient past to the present day.
The Ancient History of Latakia
Latakia has been inhabited since the Neolithic era, with evidence of settlements from this period found at the archaeological site of Tell Tweini. In the Bronze Age, the region was home to the Amorites, who established a number of city-states in the area. In the Iron Age, the region was part of the Aramean kingdom of Bit-Adini, which was conquered by the Assyrians in the 8th century BCE.
The region was then conquered by the Persians, who ruled the area from 539 BCE to 333 BCE. During this period, Latakia was part of the province of Syria Phoenicia, which was ruled by the Seleucid dynasty. In 64 BCE, the area was conquered by the Roman Empire and became part of the province of Syria.
The Roman Empire and the Byzantine Period
Latakia was an important port for the Roman Empire, and the city of Laodicea was founded in the 1st century CE. The city grew in importance and became a major trading center for the region. During the Byzantine period, Latakia was an important Christian center and the seat of a bishopric.
The Arab Conquest and Ottoman Rule
In 637 CE, the region was conquered by the Arabs and became part of the Umayyad Caliphate. The area was then conquered by the Abbasids in 750 CE, and in the 11th century, it was part of the Seljuk Empire. In the 13th century, the region was conquered by the Mamluks, who ruled the area until 1516, when it was conquered by the Ottoman Empire.
The Ottoman Empire ruled the area until the end of World War I, when the region was occupied by the French. In 1920, the area became part of the French Mandate of Syria, and in 1936, it became part of the independent Syrian Republic.
Modern Latakia
Latakia is now an important port city in Syria, and is the country’s fourth-largest governorate. The city is an important industrial and agricultural center, and is home to a number of important archaeological sites. The city has a Mediterranean climate, and is a popular tourist destination.
Latakia’s long and rich history has left a lasting legacy on the region, and it is a fascinating place to explore. From its ancient past to its modern present, Latakia is a place of great historical importance and one that should not be overlooked.