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Krak des Chevaliers
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historical-site
Krak des Chevaliers, known in Arabic as Qal'at al-Hosn, is widely regarded as the best-preserved Crusader castle in the world. Perched on a 650-meter-high hill west of Homs, it once controlled the strategic gap between the coast and the interior of Syria. The current structure was primarily built by the Order of the Knights Hospitaller between 1142 and 1271, after they took over an earlier Kurdish fortification. The castle is a masterpiece of medieval military architecture, featuring a concentric defensive system with two massive rings of walls separated by a moat. Particularly impressive are the massive talus (sloping wall) and the Gothic chapel inside the inner ward. In 1271, the fortress was captured by the Mamluk Sultan Baibars after a prolonged siege. Due to its exceptional historical significance, Krak des Chevaliers was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006. Despite some damage sustained during recent conflicts, the castle remains a formidable monument to Crusader history in the Near East.
- Location: Syria
- Top sights: Al `Ālī · Al Fawar spring · St George Monastery
- Nearby: Kafroun (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 10 | 13 | 16 | 21 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 22 | 16 | 11 |
| Rain mm | 114 | 86 | 55 | 30 | 16 | 6 | 1 | 3 | 14 | 31 | 58 | 94 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Krak des Chevaliers is open to the public, with access to the courtyard and many rooms and defensive galleries. The castle is largely intact and walkable.
Typical hours
The castle is generally open daily from morning until late afternoon. Access may be restricted on holidays and during conflicts.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the castle grounds. In some interior rooms, the use of flash may be restricted.
Time needed
Allow about 2 to 3 hours for a thorough visit. The castle is extensive and provides many corners to explore.
Combine with
Combine your visit with the nearby Margat Castle on the coast. The old city of Homs is also worth a detour.
Getting there
The castle is located about 40 kilometres west of Homs. It is best reached by rental car or taxi.
Insider tip
Bring a flashlight to explore the dark corridors and underground chambers. Wear sturdy footwear as stairs and floors are uneven.
Geography
Facts
- The castle was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list in 2006.
- The Hospitallers held the castle from 1142 until 1271.
- The outer wall is reinforced by 13 massive round towers.
- The fortress could house a garrison of up to 2,000 soldiers in the Middle Ages.
- Sultan Baibars captured the castle in April 1271.
- The castle is located at the southern tip of the Jebel Ansariyeh mountains.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Krak des Chevaliers (5)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is Krak des Chevaliers?
One of the best-preserved crusader castles in the world.
How long does a visit take?
Plan for about 2 to 3 hours.
When is the best time to visit?
Spring or autumn are well-suited due to weather.
Is it family-friendly?
Yes, but there are many steps and uneven surfaces.
Is there an entry fee?
Yes, a small fee is charged.
Krak des Chevaliers: where is it located?
Krak des Chevaliers is located in Syria.
Krak des Chevaliers: what is there to see?
Highlights include Al `Ālī, Al Fawar spring, St George Monastery.
Krak des Chevaliers: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Krak des Chevaliers: why is it worth visiting?
Krak des Chevaliers, known in Arabic as Qal'at al-Hosn, is widely regarded as the best-preserved Crusader castle in the world.
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