King's Castle, Medieval castle ruin in Mi'ilya, Israel.
King's Castle is a Crusader castle ruin on a hilltop in Mi'ilya, Israel. It has a rectangular plan with a projecting square tower at each corner, and its outer walls are about 3 m thick. Below the hill are remains of an outer ward with a church and houses.
The castle served King Baldwin III as a stronghold in the 12th century during the Crusades and was later handed to the Teutonic Knights. This shift in control shows how power changed hands in the region during medieval times.
The structure shows how European medieval military design merged with local building methods of the Holy Land. Visitors can see this blend in the remaining stone walls and how the fortifications are arranged.
The archaeological site is accessible through the village of Mi'ilya and offers guided tours to explore the remaining fortification elements. Wear sturdy shoes since the ground is uneven and there is little shade, so bring water and sun protection.
The castle was a tax-collection point for the King of Jerusalem, and 7 to 8 knights stationed there oversaw an area of some 70 to 80 villages. In 1220 the countess Beatrix von Botenlauben sold it to Hermann von Salza, head of the Teutonic Order, though the deal was only confirmed in 1228.
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