CASTLE OF SAINT-GILLES

A few hundred meters from the Madrassa Al-Burtasiyat, we arrive at the foot of Mount Pilgrim dominated by Qualaat Sanjil, the castle of Saint-Gilles. The latter can be reached by a small street with a steep slope. A small square in front of the castle allows you to park your car. Built by the Crusaders, it has been redesigned many times. Today, only the outer wall overlooking the river is period, but it remains one of the best preserved fortresses in Lebanon.

Construction work on the castle began at the beginning of the 12th century during the siege of Tripoli. After the end of the first crusade, Raymond de Saint-Gilles, Count of Toulouse, who had just conquered Tartos, headed for Tripoli. He stopped at the entrance to the city - then concentrated in the El Mina peninsula - and built a fortress there for a long and difficult presence. Under siege, Tripoli developed at the foot of the castle. Raymond de Saint-Gilles died in 1105 in the fortress, leaving his son to take over the city.

After 180 years of cross-domination, Tripoli fell into the hands of the Mamluks in 1289. Burnt and looted, it was largely destroyed. The castle was reborn from its ruins at the beginning of the 14th century, thanks to the work undertaken by Amir Esendémir. Restored by Suleyman the Magnificent, it was used as a prison in the last century.

From the top of the citadel, you can enjoy an impressive and panoramic view of the city, the shores of Nahr Abu Ali. It is impossible to miss the opposite hillside: Dahr el-Mougher or Al-Souwayka has hundreds of small houses built next to each other. Some have been repainted. This show is striking. Just like visiting this imposing fortress: during the week, tourists are rare and it is not uncommon to find yourself absolutely alone in this gigantic building.