fortress

Nimrod Fortress – The Mountain Stronghold of the Northern Golan

High above the Hula Valley, on the slopes of Mount Hermon, stands Nimrod Fortress — the largest medieval castle preserved in Israel. Known in Arabic as Qal‘at al-Subeiba (“Castle of the Cliff”) and later as Nimrod Castle, it was founded in the 13th century by the Ayyubids, descendants of Saladin. The fortress was built to guard the strategic route from Damascus to the coastal plains, protecting the Golan frontier from Crusader incursions and rival Muslim powers.

Growth and Strategic Importance

Soon after its construction, Nimrod Fortress became a key military and administrative center. During the Mamluk period(mid-13th to 14th century), it was expanded and strengthened under Sultan Baibars and his governor Bilik al-‘Amr, who oversaw the addition of massive towers, water cisterns, secret passages, and stone stairways.

At its height, the fortress stretched over 420 meters in length, with walls enclosing barracks, storerooms, stables, and a grand audience hall. Its location — perched more than 800 meters above sea level — gave it a commanding view of the Galilee, the Golan Heights, and the road to Damascus.

The Inscribed Stone of Bilik al-‘Amr

One of the fortress’s most striking features is a huge basalt stone bearing a long Arabic inscription. This inscription honors Bilik al-‘Amr, the Mamluk governor responsible for fortifying the castle in 1275 CE. The text commemorates his loyalty to Sultan Baibars and his successful defense of the region. This monumental stone remains in place, a rare and powerful testament to medieval Arabic architecture and calligraphy in the Levant.

After the 14th century, as regional threats shifted and new political powers arose, the fortress gradually lost its military importance. An earthquake in the 18th century caused severe damage, leading to its abandonment. Over time, Nimrod Fortress fell into silence — its towers and halls slowly merging with the mountain landscape.

Rediscovery and Preservation

In the 20th century, archaeologists and conservationists recognized Nimrod’s significance as one of the most impressive Crusader-era fortresses in the Middle East. Excavations and restorations carried out by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority have stabilized the ruins, cleared pathways, and made the site accessible to visitors.

Today, the fortress functions as an open-air museum, allowing travelers to wander through its massive gates, towers, and secret passages. The panoramic views from the ramparts — overlooking snow-capped Mount Hermon in winter and green valleys in spring — make it one of the most spectacular historic sites in Israel.

Practical Information for Visitors

Location: Northern Golan Heights, near the Druze village of Nimrod, along the road between Banias and Mount Hermon.
Managed by: Israel Nature and Parks Authority.
Opening Hours: Open daily; hours vary by season (typically morning to late afternoon).
Entrance Fee: Modest admission fee; free with Israel Nature Reserves Pass.
Facilities: Rest areas, parking, and observation points.
Access: By car or organized tour; moderate walking required inside the site.
Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and clear views.

Though centuries have passed since soldiers patrolled its walls, Nimrod Fortress still commands the Golan Heights with silent dignity. Its stones tell the story of empires, faith, and resilience — a mountain stronghold that once guarded the crossroads of history and now watches over the valleys in peace.

The Church of the Crusaders in Beit Guvrin

Planning an enriching family trip to Israel? Don’t miss the Beit Guvrin–Maresha Archaeological Park, just 10 km from Beit Shemesh in the heart of the Judean Hills. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a true treasure for young explorers and adults fascinated by history.

Among the rolling green hills, visitors embark on a real journey through time:

Roman Amphitheater
One of the park’s highlights, where thousands once gathered to watch gladiatorial games. Today, the stone seating is open to visitors — sit like a Roman and imagine the roar of the crowd. Informational panels with QR codes offer an audio play about gladiators, making it engaging for children and teens.
Bestiary
A unique area where wild animals such as lions, hippos, and elephants were once kept. With its ancient arches and columns, this sit provides a dramatic backdrop for memorable family photos.
Crusader Fortress and Church
Just a short walk from the amphitheater, the ruins of a medieval Crusader fortress and church (later rebuilt by the Mamluks) await. Narrow staircases, thick walls, and panoramic views from the fortress make the visit feel like a real adventure for kids.

Beit Guvrin is also family-friendly: shaded walking paths, picnic areas, and nearby amenities (gas station with café, shop, and restrooms) make it perfect for a full day out in nature and history.

Visitor Information

Address: Beit Guvrin National Park, near Kibbutz Beit Guvrin
Getting there: About 1 hour’s drive from Tel Aviv or Jerusalem on weekends
Opening hours:
- Summer (Apr–Sept): 8:00–17:00
- Winter (Oct–Mar): 8:00–16:00
  (Last entry 1 hour before closing)
Tickets: Adults 28 NIS. Tickets are purchased near the caves, about 3 km from the amphitheater.
Insider tip: On Saturdays, the gate to the amphitheater is often left open, allowing free entry — a pleasant bonus for weekend visitors.

Beit Guvrin is the perfect combination of history, exploration, and family-friendly fun in the Judean Hills.

Amphitheater of Ancient Rome and the Church of the Crusaders

Montfort Castle – The Teutonic Knights’ Fortress in the Western Galilee

Montfort Castle, whose name means “Strong Mountain” in French, rises above the lush Nahal Kziv valley in the Western Galilee, northern Israel. Reaching it requires a moderate hike through the green hills of the Galilee. The trail descends toward the stream and then climbs again to the ridge where the ruins stand — a rewarding route that combines nature, history, and breathtaking views.

During the 12th century, following the First Crusade, the Galilee became a stronghold of Christian settlers and military orders. The fertile valleys and strategic hills attracted Crusaders who established villages, farms, and fortresses to protect the roads leading to Acre, the main port of the Latin Kingdom of Jerusalem.

Montfort Castle was built in the early 13th century by the Teutonic Order, a German Catholic military order. Originally a small estate, it was transformed into the order’s main fortress and administrative center in the Holy Land after 1220. The Teutonic Knights fortified the hilltop with thick walls, towers, a gatehouse, a great hall, and a residential palace. The location offered natural protection on three sides by steep cliffs, making it almost impregnable.

The castle became a target during the Mamluk campaigns. In 1266, the forces of Sultan Baybars besieged Montfort. Despite its strong defenses, the knights were outnumbered. After several days of fierce fighting, the Teutonic garrison surrendered in exchange for safe passage to Acre. The Mamluks then demolished much of the fortress to prevent its reuse. This marked the end of Teutonic presence in the Holy Land.

After the fall of the Crusader Kingdom, Montfort lay abandoned. Over centuries, earthquakes and erosion reduced the fortress to romantic ruins. European explorers rediscovered it in the 19th century, recognizing its importance as one of the best-preserved examples of Gothic Crusader architecture in the region.

Today, Montfort Castle is part of the Montfort Nature Reserve, managed by the Israel Nature and Parks Authority. Visitors can explore the remains of the tower, hall, cisterns, and defensive walls, while enjoying panoramic views of the Galilean landscape. The hike to the site is about 3 km round trip, and though it requires some climbing, the sight of the ruined castle perched high above the valley is unforgettable.

Practical Information

Location: Western Galilee, near the villages of Mi'ilya and Abirim.
Access: Reachable only on foot via hiking trails in Nahal Kziv Nature Reserve.
Entrance: Free; bring water and good walking shoes.
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the valley is green.
Managed by: Israel Nature and Parks Authority.

Though the Teutonic Knights left Montfort over seven centuries ago, their stronghold remains a symbol of courage, faith, and endurance. Its weathered stones still overlook the Galilean hills — silent witnesses to the rise and fall of the Crusader dream.