"Krak des Chevaliers" Qal`at al Hisn by MM212

Qal`at al Hisn Travel Guide: 38 reviews and 159 photos

Although one of many Crusader fortresses around the Levant, Krak des Chevaliers (Qal'at al Hisn in Arabic) is by far the greatest. It sits strategically atop a high hill protecting the only access from the Mediterranean Sea to the Syrian heartland. A smaller fortress existed on the site since the 10th century, before the arrival of the Crusaders. In the 11th century, the castle was conquered and expanded by the Crusaders, and served as the seat of the Knights of Hospitaller until it was captured by the Mamluke Sultan, Baibar in the late 13th century. It is considered one of the most incredible defence structures in the mediaeval world and many historians were later mesmerised by this castle, describing it as the most perfect or most admirable. For admirers of castle architecture, the Krak is not to be missed due to its great size and unmatched state of preservation. It is considered one of Syria's top gems and has been on the UNESCO's list of World Heritage Sites since 2006.

On 26th December 2006, I went on a road trip from Damascus to Maaloula, then to Krak des Chevalier, and later drove through Homs to reach Palmyra by night. The weather did not cooperate, unfortunately, as it was cold, windy, rainy and foggy (!), though such weather is not uncommon during winter in this incredibly green part of Syria.

IMPORTANT UPDATE: Krak des Chevaliers has suffered some damage during the civil war between the Syrian government and the Free Syrian Army.

Syria itinerary in Dec 2006:

Damascus - Maaloula - Krak des Chevaliers - Homs - Palmyra/Tadmur - Hama - Apamea - Aleppo - Al Barah/Serjilla - Damascus

Pros and Cons

Pros:Magnificent!
Cons:Difficult to reach, rainy in winter

Last visit to Qal`at al Hisn: Dec 2006
Intro Updated Dec 20, 2012
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Reviews (12)

Krak des Chevaliers, Dec 2006 - Qal`at al Hisn

Krak des Chevaliers Things to Do (11)

The best full views of this incredible architectural masterpiece (seen in the attached photo) are on the road just west... more travel advice

Excellent home cooked meal - Qal`at al Hisn

Excellent home cooked meal Restaurants (1)

There is nothing luxurious about this restaurant, yet the food is excellent. The dining room has stunning panoramic... more travel advice

Richard I "The Lion-Heart" Things to Do (11)

Two lion sculptures above an entrance into the moat are said to represent the English Crusader, Richard I, nicknamed... more travel advice

The arab baths in the moat. - Qal`at al Hisn

The Moat Things to Do (11)

A tour of the moat - the area between the two walls of the castle - is recommended. It provides a good perspective on... more travel advice

Travelogues (1)

Written Apr 12, 2007

8 photos

Views from Krak des Chevaliers

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Comments (3)

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MalenaN Apr 24, 2008 at 11:54 AM

It's an impressive castle! Great tips that bring back good memories!
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triplehelix Aug 25, 2007 at 7:18 PM

hey when did VT add this location?? i was trying to add pics but the closest place was homs. glad its up and running!
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norain Jan 6, 2007 at 8:09 AM

love this castle...