The Crusader States and Their Enduring Legacy: A Road Trip Through Israel’s Medieval Castles

When the First Crusade captured Jerusalem in 1099, it marked the birth of a new political and cultural experiment in the Levant. Out of the wave of conquest arose four Crusader states, footholds of Latin Christendom in a region contested for centuries. Their existence was brief in historical terms, yet their castles, chronicles, and conflicts left behind a legacy that continues to shape the history of the Middle East.

The Birth of the Crusader States

The four Crusader states carved out of the Levantine landscape were the Kingdom of Jerusalem, the Principality of Antioch, the County of Edessa, and the County of Tripoli.

  • The County of Edessa, founded in 1098, was the first and most fragile. Surrounded by powerful Muslim neighbors, it eventually fell to Zengi, the ruler of Mosul and Aleppo, in 1144. This collapse shocked Europe and was the driving force behind the Second Crusade.
  • The Principality of Antioch, also established in 1098, grew under the Norman adventurers Bohemond of Taranto and his nephew Tancred of Tiberias. They consolidated rule in northern Syria, but Antioch was always caught between its Muslim rivals and Byzantine claims. In 1137, Prince Raymond of Poitiers was forced to pay homage to the Byzantine emperor, underscoring the precarious diplomacy of the Crusader lords.
  • The County of Tripoli, created in 1109 as the last of the Crusader states, was given to Bertrand of St. Gilles as a vassal of Jerusalem. Strategically perched on the coast, it became a key outpost but shared in the eventual decline of its neighbors.
  • At the center stood the Kingdom of Jerusalem, established after the fall of the Holy City. Baldwin I became its first king, followed by rulers such as Baldwin II, Fulk of Anjou, and Baldwin III. The kingdom expanded across Palestine and beyond, controlling pilgrimage routes and trade.

For much of the 12th century, expansion and defense defined Crusader politics. But the growing strength of leaders like Saladin would soon challenge their survival.

Saladin and the Turning Point

The greatest blow to the Crusader project came in 1187 at the Battle of Hattin, where Sultan Saladin crushed the Crusader army. In the aftermath, Jerusalem fell, along with much of the kingdom. The loss sparked outrage across Christendom and summoned a new generation of warriors, among them Richard the Lionheart.

Richard the Lionheart and the Third Crusade

Richard I of England, remembered as Richard the Lionheart, led one of the most famous crusading efforts in history. Traveling east in 1191 with his sometime ally and often rival, Philip II of France, Richard first seized Cyprus, a strategic victory that would echo in later Crusader history. He then led the siege of Acre to a successful conclusion after two grueling years.

Despite victories, Richard never reclaimed Jerusalem. Exhausted by war and political disputes with Philip II, he struck a deal with Saladin in 1192 that secured Christian control over the coastal strip from Tyre to Jaffa. Pilgrims could travel safely to the Holy Land, but the Holy City itself remained beyond reach.

Richard’s return was marked by misfortune. He was captured in Austria and held for ransom, a dramatic reminder of how the fortunes of kings could change as swiftly as armies in the field.

19th century CE painting depicting Richard I (r. 1189-1199 CE) leading the march of the Crusader army to Jerusalem during the Third Crusade (1189-1192 CE). James William Glass.

Attempts at Revival

Though Jerusalem was not recovered through battle, later Crusades tried diplomacy with some success. Emperor Frederick II of the Holy Roman Empire negotiated the return of Jerusalem in 1229 without drawing a sword. Other campaigns, such as the Barons’ Crusade of 1239–1241, reclaimed parts of Palestine, including Ascalon. Yet these fragile gains slipped away. By 1244, Jerusalem was again lost, this time permanently.

The Crusader presence continued to erode. Antioch fell to Baibars and the Mamluks in 1268. Tripoli collapsed in 1289. Finally, in 1291, the city of Acre, the last great stronghold of the Kingdom of Jerusalem, fell after a brutal siege. The Latin states of the East were no more.

The Fall and Retreat

The fall of Acre forced the remaining Crusaders to abandon the mainland. Some fled to Cyprus, which became the next staging ground for Christian military orders. The Knights Hospitaller, iconic defenders of the Holy Land, would later seize Rhodes in 1306. There they created a new bastion until they were driven out by the Ottomans in 1522. From there, the order settled in Malta, where they remained a formidable naval power for centuries.

Crusader Castles in Israel

Although the Crusader states disappeared centuries ago, their fortresses remain some of the most evocative sites for travelers in modern Israel. Scattered across the landscape, these castles tell a living story of defense, faith, and frontier life. For anyone interested in history, archaeology, or travel, they are remarkable destinations.

Acre (Akko) Fortress

Acre was the beating heart of the Crusader Kingdom during its final century. Today visitors can explore underground vaulted halls, the Templars’ Tunnel that once linked the port to the fortress, and massive stone walls that withstood repeated sieges. The Old City of Akko is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, combining Crusader remains with later Ottoman architecture, making it a must-see destination for anyone exploring northern Israel.

Montfort Castle

Perched dramatically on a ridge above the Kziv Valley, Montfort was the headquarters of the Teutonic Knights. Its isolated but commanding position makes it one of the most picturesque Crusader ruins in Galilee. Hiking trails lead visitors through the forested valley to the castle, where they can climb among towers and walls that still cling to the cliffs. This site beautifully combines natural landscape with medieval history.

Belvoir Castle (Kochav Hayarden)

Often called one of the best-preserved Crusader castles in Israel, Belvoir overlooks the Jordan Valley. Its name means “beautiful view” in French, and standing on its terrace confirms why. The castle’s double-walled fortifications and moat demonstrate Crusader military engineering at its finest. For visitors, the preservation work makes it easy to imagine knights on watch, scanning the horizon for approaching armies.

Citadel of Safed [/ˈsɑːfɛd]

Located in modern Safed, this fortress guarded northern Galilee routes. Though most of the castle is in ruins, its hilltop location now offers panoramic views of Upper Galilee, the Golan, and Mount Meron. Safed later became a hub of Jewish mysticism, adding new layers of cultural significance. The site provides a blend of Crusader military history and spiritual heritage.

Castellum Regis (Mi’ilya)

Mi’ilya, a predominantly Christian village in Galilee, preserves the remains of the royal castle known as Castellum Regis, or the “King’s Castle.” Unlike more remote fortresses, this one became intertwined with the life of the village. Walking through Mi’ilya reveals how Crusader stonework was repurposed into homes and local structures, making the community itself part of the castle’s living legacy.

Chastel Béroard near Ashdod

Little remains of Chastel Béroard today, but its ruins hint at the network of smaller castles built to secure the coastal plain. Located near Ashdod, it once functioned as part of the defensive chain protecting routes between Jaffa, Ashkelon, and Jerusalem. It offers a fascinating glimpse into how even minor fortresses played a role in the Crusader defense system.

Aqua Bella (Ein Hemed) near Abu Ghosh

Set in a lush valley west of Jerusalem, Aqua Bella features the remains of a Crusader fortress that once secured the road to the Holy City. Today the site is part of Ein Hemed National Park, where visitors can stroll among arched halls, stone towers, and flowing springs. It combines historical exploration with a picnic-friendly landscape, making it an ideal stop for families and history enthusiasts alike.

Le Saforie near Ma’alot-Tarshiha

The ruins at Le Saforie are less well-known than Montfort or Acre, but they offer insight into the rural strongholds that supported the Crusader presence. The site lies near Ma’alot-Tarshiha in northern Israel, blending into agricultural lands that have been farmed for centuries. This castle illustrates the layered history of control in the region, from Crusaders to later Mamluk and Ottoman rulers.

Castellum Judin (Yehiam Fortress, Kibbutz Yehiam)

This site, also called Yehiam Fortress, lies within Kibbutz Yehiam in the western Galilee. Initially a Crusader stronghold, it later saw expansion under the Ottomans. Today, visitors can walk among impressive walls and towers, while the kibbutz adds a modern twist to its medieval setting. Concerts and cultural events are sometimes hosted at the fortress, giving travelers a sense of how historical ruins can become part of living communities.

Ashkelon Fortress (Ashkelon National Park)

The southern coastal city of Ashkelon was an important stronghold fought over by Crusaders and their Muslim rivals. Today, Ashkelon National Park preserves remains of Crusader and earlier fortifications, including massive stone walls that once guarded the Mediterranean port. The site also contains Roman and Byzantine ruins, making it a layered journey through multiple eras of conquest and settlement.

Nimrod Castle (Qala’at Nimrud, Golan Heights)

Although technically of Ayyubid and later Mamluk construction, Nimrod Castle shares architectural features with Crusader fortresses. Built high on the slopes of Mount Hermon, it dominates the Golan Heights with sweeping views across Lebanon, Syria, and northern Israel. The massive towers, secret passages, and heavy fortifications showcase the kind of frontier defenses that defined the region during the Crusader and Mamluk struggles.

These castles are more than piles of stone. They are open-air history books, inviting visitors to step into the very landscapes where knights once stood watch over pilgrim roads, trade routes, and contested borders. For the modern traveler, they transform a journey through Israel into both a cultural adventure and a vivid encounter with the medieval past.

Legacy of the Crusader States

The Crusader states ultimately lasted less than two centuries, yet their influence is far larger than their lifespan suggests. They represented the first large-scale European attempt to plant long-term colonies in the eastern Mediterranean. Their castles continue to attract scholars and tourists, reminders of an age when cross-cultural contact meant both violent collision and uneasy coexistence.

They also symbolize the resilience of cultures in conflict. For the Crusaders, the Holy Land was a spiritual prize worth immense sacrifice. For Muslim leaders, defending and reclaiming the land carried equal importance. The ebb and flow of conquest, diplomacy, and faith created legacies still felt in the memory of both East and West.

The story of the Crusader states is one of ambition, loss, and enduring stone walls. Their kings and princes came and went, their armies rose and fell, but their castles still stand on the hills of Israel and Palestine, silent witnesses to a turbulent chapter of world history.

Crusader Castles Road Trip: From Ashkelon to the Galilee

Travelers can embark on a journey through time by linking these castles into a scenic and educational road trip. The following route is best explored with a car and can be adapted to suit a long weekend or a 4–5 day itinerary, depending on the depth of your explorations.

Day 1: Southern Coast – Ashkelon and Ashdod

  • Start in Ashkelon: Wander through Ashkelon National Park and explore the remains of the Crusader fortress, which once stood as a major coastal stronghold.
  • Ashdod (Chastel Béroard): A short drive north brings you to the remains of Chastel Béroard. While little survives, the coastal ambiance and proximity to modern cafes make it an enjoyable quick stop.

Travel tip: Both parks are close to the Mediterranean, so plan for a relaxed morning with sea views and historical ruins.

Day 2: Acre (Akko) and Castellum Regis (Mi’ilya)

  • Acre (Akko): Head north to the Old City of Akko. Tour the Knights’ Halls, Crusader tunnels, and ramparts. Take advantage of UNESCO site interpretive materials.
  • Mi’ilya (Castellum Regis): Nearby Mi’ilya’s Crusader castle blends seamlessly with the modern village. Walk the narrow streets and see how local life interacts with the layered historical setting.

Travel tip: Consider spending the night in Acre’s old town for a memorable historic atmosphere and easy walking distance to the main sites.

Day 3: Western and Upper Galilee – Montfort, Yehiam, Safed, and Le Saforie

  • Montfort Castle: Drive to Goren Park; hike along the trails to reach the photogenic Teutonic knight fortress. The hike is moderately challenging, so wear good shoes and bring water.
  • Yehiam Fortress (Castellum Judin): Located in Kibbutz Yehiam, this site offers both Crusader ruins and the lively backdrop of community life.
  • Safed Castle: Press on to the ancient city of Safed. The hilltop castle offers panoramic views and a tranquil setting for a midday pause.
  • Le Saforie: End the northern loop with a visit to the rural site near Ma’alot-Tarshiha, surrounded by farmlands and quiet countryside.

Travel tip: Many northern castles are nestled in lush valleys or hills—spring and autumn are ideal for comfortable hiking and clear vistas.

Day 4: Central to Eastern Galilee – Belvoir and Aqua Bella

  • Belvoir Castle (Kochav Hayarden): This fortress overlooks the Jordan Valley and features well-preserved ramparts. Enjoy the sweeping views and vivid historical displays.
  • Aqua Bella (Ein Hemed National Park): Descend toward Jerusalem and visit Aqua Bella, where Crusader ruins nestle beside streams and wooded picnic areas.

Travel tip: Pack a picnic for Belvoir or Ein Hemed, as these sites combine dramatic views with ample green space for a relaxing lunch.

Bonus: Golan Heights and Nimrod Castle

  • Nimrod Castle (Qala’at Nimrud): If you have extra time or are venturing into the far north, Nimrod’s imposing mountaintop location offers dramatic scenery and a glimpse into frontier defense.

Travel tip: The Golan region is especially lovely in early summer, and Nimrod is accessible from both the Galilee and Upper Galilee, making it a perfect capstone to your journey.

Practical Tips for History-Minded Travelers

  • Opening hours and entry fees: Always check official park or heritage site websites for up-to-date information on opening times and ticket prices. Weekdays often see fewer visitors, while some sites require modest entry fees.

Guided tours: Consider joining local guided tours at major castles like Acre and Belvoir for rich, expert insights, especially if this is your first encounter with Crusader history.

Accessibility: Acre, Ashkelon, and Belvoir are well-prepared for visitors. Montfort and Nimrod require moderate hikes, so bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water.

  • Blended itineraries: These castles can be paired with visits to Roman, Byzantine, or biblical sites nearby, turning your itinerary into a tapestry of Israel’s history.

This road trip combines tangible medieval history with the vibrant landscapes of Israel. Whether following the footsteps of knights or soaking in the dramatic views, each stop is a chance to connect with both heritage and nature.

Here’s a list of relevant official travel websites that provide information and planning resources for visiting Crusader castles and historic sites in Israel:

These official resources help travelers find opening hours, tickets, guided tours, and up-to-date advice for a smooth and informed journey.