Safed, Medieval fortress in northern Galilee, Israel
Safed Citadel is a medieval fortified complex positioned on a hilltop in northern Galilee. The site features thick stone walls, defensive towers, and underground passages scattered throughout the ruins.
The Crusaders built the initial fortress in 1168, but after their defeat, the Mamluk sultan Baybars captured it in 1266 and expanded the structure significantly. The Ottomans later took control of this strategic location.
The fortress reflects the layers of many rulers who occupied it, and you can see how different peoples used and modified the same stone structures. Walking through the ruins shows how the place was adapted by each new group that held it.
The location sits on a hillside with expansive views across the surrounding landscape, so be prepared for inclines while walking around. The site is open for exploration during daylight hours, and while there are many areas to discover, expect uneven ground throughout.
From this location, rulers once controlled the trade routes connecting the Mediterranean coast to inland regions, making it invaluable to every conqueror. This strategic importance explains why so many different powers invested in fortifying the same hilltop.
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