Castles of the Crusades

Castles in the Levant were a significant feature of the landscape during the medieval period. These fortresses were constructed by both European crusaders and the Muslim Emirates. These castles were built to withstand sieges and attacks from either side while also imposing control over the surrounding countryside, and as such, they were some of the most formidable fortifications of their time. Many of these castles still stand today, serving as a testament to the ingenuity and military prowess those who constructed them. Despite their military significance, these castles were also centers of trade, commerce, and culture, playing a crucial role in the development of the Levantine region during the medieval period.

This project consists of a photographic exploration of the Levant’s crusader castles, countries documented consist of Jordan, Palestine, Lebanon, Cyprus, Egypt and Syria.

Sites with no gallery beneath are still incomplete

1.Jordan

Karak Castle

Located in the city of Karak in Jordan, Karak Castle is a massive fortress that has stood for almost nine centuries. Built-in the 12th century by the Crusaders, the castle was strategically positioned on the King's Highway and played an important role in the conflicts between the Crusaders and the Muslim armies. Over the centuries, the castle has been seized by various rulers and undergone numerous renovations.

Shobak Castle

Also known as Montreal, is a historic fortification located in the southern region of Jordan. Built in the 12th century by the Crusaders, this castle has witnessed numerous battles and underwent several ownership changes throughout the centuries.

Ajloun Castle

Located in the northern part of Jordan, Ajloun Castle is a remarkable fortress with a rich history. Built in the 12th century, the castle was initially designed to defend against Frankish incursions into Muslim territories. With its strategic location atop a hill overlooking the surrounding landscape, Ajloun Castle played a significant role in the defence of the region during the Crusades. The castle features a series of towers, tunnels, and chambers, which provide visitors with a glimpse into the past, allowing them to imagine what life was like for the people who once lived there.

al-Wu’ayra Castle

known to the Crusaders as Li Vaux Moïse (the Valleys of Moses ‘Wadi Musa’)—it was part of the chain of fortifications designed to protect the eastern frontier of the Crusader kingdom and was likely built sometime between 1127 and 1140.

According to William of Tyre, in 1144, a Seljuk force from Syria came to Petra—apparently at the request of the inhabitants—and camped near the castle. But when the Crusaders threatened to attack the olive groves on which the locals’ livelihood depended, the Turks withdrew. Fourteen years later, the new ruler of Syria, Nur ad-Din Zengi, sent another army against Wu,ayra, but the siege was abandoned after eight fruitless days.

2. Lebanon

Beaufort Castle Crusader

Located in the southern region of Lebanon, Beaufort Castle is a massive fortress built by the Crusaders during the 12th century. Over the years, it has served as a strategic stronghold for various armies, including the Ottomans, Mamluks, and more recently, the Israelis during the Lebanon War. Today, it stands as a stunning reminder of the country's rich history and a testament to the engineering capabilities of the Crusaders.

Tripoli citadel

Ale known as the Citadel of Raymond de Saint-Gilles is a historic fortress perched atop a rocky hill in Tripoli, Lebanon. Commissioned by Raymond IV, Count of Toulouse, in the 12th century, the citadel served as his residence during the Crusades. The imposing structure is surrounded by a deep moat and boasts well-preserved walls and towers that offer stunning views of the city and Mediterranean Sea.

Byblos Citadel

Also known as the Byblos Castle, is a stunning medieval fortress located in the heart of the ancient city of Byblos, Lebanon. Built by the Crusaders in the 12th century, the citadel served as one of the main defensive structures of the city for centuries. Today, the palace holds a fascinating history and culture with beautifully preserved ruins, artefacts, and excavated sites. Standing tall on the rocky coastline of the Mediterranean Sea, the citadel offers a breathtaking view of the sea and the surrounding landscape.

Sidon Sea Castle

Sidon Sea Castle is a historical fortress located in the city of Sidon, Lebanon. The castle was built by the Crusaders in the 13th century using limestone blocks and is situated on a small island off the coast of Sidon.

Smar Jbeil Citadel

The Smar Jbeil Citadel is a historic fortress located in the town of Smar Jbeil in Lebanon. The castle is believed to have been built by the Crusaders in the 12th century and has since undergone various restorations throughout history. Today, it stands tall atop a hill overlooking the stunning Mediterranean Sea, offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Fortress Ros el Franj

3.Cyprus

Kantara Castle

Located in Northern Cyprus, Kantara Castle is one of the three famous castles in the Kyrenia mountain range, along with Buffavento and St. Hilarion castles. Built during the 10th century, the castle's name "Kantara" means "bridge" or "arch" in Arabic, and was named for its strategic location bridging the gap between two coastal hills. Visitors to the castle can explore various aspects of medieval life, from the granaries and dormitories to the underground water cistern. Kantara Castle also offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean sea, making it a popular tourist destination.

Buffavento Castle

Buffavento Castle is a stunning medieval castle located on the top of a mountain in the Kyrenia Mountains of Cyprus. Dating back to the Byzantine period, it was initially built to serve as a watchtower and later on as a stronghold against enemy invasions. Its strategic location on top of a hill makes it an excellent vantage point to catch the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Mediterranean Sea. Though the castle has undergone several restorations, the rugged and rustic feel has been preserved throughout the years.

Saint Hilarion Castle

Located in the Kyrenia Mountains in Northern Cyprus, Saint Hilarion Castle is a stunning medieval fortification that dates back to the 10th century. With its strategic location and commanding views of the surrounding landscape, the castle served as both a defensive fortress and a royal retreat over the centuries.

Kolossi CastleKolossi Castle

Kolossi Castle is a medieval castle located on the outskirts of Limassol, Cyprus. It was originally built in the 13th century by the Knights of St. John, but it underwent many renovations by different rulers throughout history. The castle was used as a sugar refinery and a command center during the Middle Ages as well as a military base during the Ottoman and British periods.

4. Historic Palestine & Occupied Golan Heights

Arsuf Castle
Arsuf Castle stands proudly as a testament to the region's rich and tumultuous past. This magnificent fortress, overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, has witnessed centuries of imperial conquests and strategic battles. Built by the Crusaders in the 12th century, Arsuf Castle served as a formidable stronghold against Saladin's forces during the Third Crusade.