Latakia, officially known as Lattakia, is the principal port city of Syria and serves as the capital of the Latakia Governorate. Situated on the Mediterranean coast, it is the fifth-largest city in the country, following Aleppo, Damascus, Homs, and Hama. Historically, the location has been referred to as Laodicea in Syria or Laodicea ad Mare.
The city functions as a significant manufacturing center for nearby agricultural towns and villages. As of 2023, its population is estimated at 709,000, a figure that saw substantial growth following the Syrian Revolution due to an influx of internally displaced persons from rebel-held areas. The city is located approximately 109 kilometres (68 mi) from Cape Apostolos Andreas, which marks the north-eastern tip of Cyprus.