The Saljuki Castle is one of the major attractions of Damascus. It was built in 1076 AD during the reign of King Atzin Adaq. Later during the reign of Al-Adel it was completely demolished and a new castle replaced the old structure.
The Saljuki Castle was constructed way back in 1076 AD. The construction of this castle began during the reign of King Atzin Adaq. There was some confusion amongst archeologists regarding the date of construction of the castle. It was first thought that the castle was built during the Roman period in Syria. But modern studies have proved that the Saljuki ruler, King Atzin Adaq, built the Castle. The security system of the castle was very efficient.
Security Features of the Saljuki Castle:
The Saljuki Castle was a fortified city, well protected from enemy attacks. The high walls of the castle were impregnated with holes and cavities. During an enemy attack, boiling oil was poured through these holes onto the enemies.
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Arrows were also shot through the holes to kill the opponents. A trench filled with water drawn from river Barada encircled the Saljuki Castle. Inside the castle there were water canals and wells. During wars, when the castle remained cut off from the outside world, these wells and canals were the main source of water.
Destruction of The Old Saljuki Castle:
The old Castle was destroyed in 1202 AD by the orders of King Al-Adel. A new castle replaced the old one. He ordered to build this new castle during the time of the Crusades because he felt that the security system of the castle was not foolproof to resist the attackers.
A salient feature of the city of Damascus is the co-existence of the past and present. A stroll around the Saljuki Castle will take you back in time, while the view from the Castle holds before you modern Damascus with its highways, bustling roads, fast moving cars and western attired people. Such juxtaposition is the charm of Saljuki Castle and tourists come in thousands to behold this charm.
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