A visit to Tartus museum, exhibiting ancient artefacts excavated from the region’s archaeological sites (Ugarit, Krak des Chevaliers, Amrit…) including a fine collection of sarcophagae, is also a chance to admire the interior of this cathedral built by the Crusaders in the 12C. Its massive fortress-like façade is void of ornamentation. Dedicated to Mary, it long drew pilgrims; in its Byzantine chapel is one of three icons of the Virgin purportedly by St Luke the Evangelist.