Damascus Citadel

The Citadel of Damascus is a large medieval fortress on the northwestern edge of the walled old city, integrated into the line of the ancient defensive walls. Largely rebuilt under Ayyubid rule in the early 13th century, it has massive stone towers, gates, and a moat, and withstood sieges through the Crusader and Mongol periods. Inside stand the remains of a mosque, palace, and bathhouses. Restored in recent decades, it stands beside a statue of Saladin at the entrance to the historic markets.