Khirbet Rushmiya

Khirbet Rushmiya is a fortified site and archaeological complex on Mount Carmel's northern slope in Haifa. The ruins include a main rectangular building with a tower and underground vaulted chambers that spread across the hillside.

The site was built as a medieval fortress under Crusader control and served as a military stronghold for over a century. Following its capture and later agreements with Mamluk rulers, it changed hands multiple times through different periods.

The site displays building methods from many different peoples who lived here across the centuries. You can see how Persians, Greeks, Romans, and later medieval populations each left their marks in the walls and structures.

The site sits on a hillside and is accessible on foot with sturdy shoes recommended due to the uneven terrain. The remains are partly open, so visitors should expect steep slopes and uneven ground throughout the area.

The walls were built using large shaped stones fitted together with remarkable precision without mortar, demonstrating the skill of medieval builders. You can observe how these stones have held firm for centuries despite weather and time.