Old town
Citadel of Raymond de Saint Gilles (Qalaa Sanjil)

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With its main entrance on the north, the huge 12th-century Crusader fortress of Raymond de Saint-Gilles was constructed in 1102 on Mount Pilgrim with the purpose of controlling land trade by blocking the city from the sea. In order to get rid of the Crusaders, the Mamluks destroyed it in 1289 after which it was rebuilt in 1307. Following yet another destruction, the Ottomans rebuilt it again in the 16th century, leaving only the foundation of the original building. Extensive restoration of the castle was performed at the beginning of the 19th century.

You can enter the citadel via an engraved Ottoman gateway, followed by a Crusader bridge. After the bridge, turn left and then right, to reach the outer and inner Mamluk-era tower and gateway. Inside the castle, the arches, courtyards and staircases show a clear mixture of styles. From the terraces and upper ramparts, there are some nice views of the old city and the Abu Ali River.

At the time of writing, the citadel was occupied by the Lebanese army. ​Opening times are from 8:00 till 15:30 in winter, 17:00 in spring and 18:00 in summer and entrance fees are 5000 LBP per person.

 

Check the map below for an overview of all Cultural locations across Lebanon.