Bourzey Castle (‏ (قلعة برزويا

The history of the castle hill dates back to the Seleucid period, when it played a role under the ancient name Lysias in securing the connection between Laodicea and Apamea. Around 65 BC, the Roman general Pompey expelled Jewish irregulars from the fortification. Later, the Byzantines built a castellum on the mountain. In 948/949, Abu al-Hagar captured the castle for the Emir of Aleppo, Saif ad-Dawla, before it was recaptured in 975 by the Byzantine general Tzimiskis. After the Battle of Manzikert in 1071, Muslims gained control of northern Syria, and in May 1090, the Seljuk governor Al-Dawla Aqsunqur took possession of the castle. Around 1103, Crusaders from the Principality of Antioch occupied the site and built the structures visible today during the first phase of castle construction (1100–1140). On August 23, 1188, Saladin besieged and captured the castle during his campaign after the Battle of Hattin. Despite its reputation for impregnability, it fell due to the sustained attacks of his troops. However, Saladin could not hold the castle permanently, and it was soon reoccupied by the Crusaders, where it played a significant role in the defense system of the Principality of Antioch.

The castle ruin of Bourzey is located in the Latakia region of Syria, near the city of Qardaha. It is situated at an elevation of approx. 480 m above sea level.

The Bourzey castle ruin is accessible to visitors and can be explored. It offers an insight into medieval fortress construction and the strategic importance of the site.

• Baitokaike Temple (Ancient Buildings), approx. 80.6 km away
• Crusader Castle Baghras (Fortress), approx. 85.4 km away
• Ancient City Amrit Stadium (Ancient Buildings), approx. 96.1 km away
• Crusader Castle Aruad (Castle), approx. 96.2 km away