Beaufort Castle, or Qalaat Al Shaqif, is a Crusader fortress in Nabatieh, South of Lebanon.
There was a fortification on the site before it was captured by Fulk, King of Jerusalem, in 1139. The construction of the Beaufort Castle began later.
It is strategically located on a hill that overlooks the Litani River and offers a view of Northern Palestine. The castle’s strategic location made it a ground for many battles throughout its history.
The Crusaders suffered a crushing defeat in 1187 at the hands of Saladin who was the first sultan of Egypt and Syria. Saladin controlled many cities and castles in the region. The Crusader’s power started to fade.
The castle came under the control of the Crusaders again in 1240. The monument was captured by the Mamluks in 1268.
The leader of the Mount Lebanon Emirate Fakhreddine II took over the castle in the 17th century because of its strategic location. He was defeated by the Ottomans who destroyed the upper part of the castle. The Galilee earthquake of 1837 caused further damage to the structure.
French historians and archaeologists investigated the region’s history and structures including Beaufort Castle during the mandate.
The Israeli forces captured the castle later. It was liberated in 2000 and became fully under the control of Lebanon.
Beaufort Castle is now one of Lebanon’s most famous landmarks. It is now standing tall and proud despite its painful history. Despite the external ruin, the inside of the castle is well preserved.
Beaufort Castle was brought back to life when Tyre International Festival organized many concerts there during the summer. It offers a breathtaking view of South Lebanon.
If you’re into history and beautiful sceneries, you know where to go!