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Citharizum (from Greek: Κιθαριξων) was a town and fortress on the south arm of the Euphrates in the Roman province of Armenia III.
According to Procopius of Caesarea the city was located in the Asthianene region. The fortress was separated from Theodosiopolis by a journey of four days. Balabitene, a region between Masius and Anti-Taurus, north of Commagene and Mesopotamia is also discussed as a possible location. Citharizum is identified with the modern village of Keteriz.
Although only a small town, it was an important point of defence for the Byzantine Empire against the Persians, and Justinian built a castle there, in which he stationed a garrison under the command of a duke. In 613, it was taken by Ashot, a general of the Persian king, Chosroes II.
Bishopric
The only diocesan bishop of the see whose name is recorded is Marcian, who attended the Trullan Council of 692.
No longer a residential bishopric, Citharizum is today listed by the Catholic Church as a titular see.