Introduction to Ras Shamra

Location

THE archaeological site of Ras Shamra is situated a few kms east of the Mediterranean coast of Syria, and constitutes the remains of the ancient city of Ugarit. Minet el-Beida is the natural harbour that served Ugarit and which helped make this city so prosperous.

On a modern map, look for Latakia, on the Syrian coast, and Ras Shamra will be found a few kms to the north. I hope to put up some maps in the near future, but until then, take a look at our aerial shot of Latakia which is a part of our air tour to Syria (Museum and Tours page).

JA

Jebel al-Akra (ancient Sapunu, Saphon)

L

Latakia, ancient port, once part of the Ugaritic Kingdom.

MB

Minet el-Beida, the natural harbour which served ancient Ugarit.

RIH

Ras Ibn Hani, once an island, with remains of Ugaritic royal residence.

RS

Ras Shamra, modern name of site of ancient city of Ugarit.

Ugarit in a Middle East perspective

(Image from Global Images GRASS GIS)