Arwad, Mediterranean island and ancient Phoenician city in Tartus District, Syria
Arwad is an inhabited island off the Syrian coast with substantial ancient remains scattered across its surface. The settlement shows defensive walls, water cisterns, and harbor structures that reveal how people lived and worked in this maritime location.
The island was founded in the early Bronze Age and later became an independent maritime kingdom under Phoenician control. Its prosperity came from trade routes and later it fell under the influence of neighboring powers.
Fishermen form the backbone of daily life here, using methods passed down through generations while building and repairing boats by hand. These working practices keep centuries of Mediterranean seafaring traditions alive in the way people move through the streets and harbor.
Visitors reach the island by regular ferries from Tartus port operating throughout the day for the short crossing. Sea conditions can affect departures, so it helps to keep plans flexible when planning your visit.
This is the only permanently inhabited island along the entire eastern Mediterranean coast, making it a rare example of continuous settlement. The mix of ancient fortifications and everyday modern life shows how people have adapted to living in this spot for thousands of years.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
