Gibelacar Fortress: A Crusader Outpost in Northern Lebanon
Explore Gibelacar Fortress in Akkar, Lebanon: a historic site with Crusader and Mamluk influences, offering stunning views and a glimpse into the past.
Gibelacar, also known as Hisn Ibn Akkar or Qal'at Akkar, is a historic fortress in Akkar al-Atiqa, northern Lebanon, dating back to the Fatimid era (early 11th century). It was later utilized and strengthened by Crusaders and Mamluks, serving as a strategic stronghold overlooking key routes.
A brief summary to Gibelacar
- G6CQ+44, Aakkar El Aatiqa, LB
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes for the 20-minute uphill hike to reach the fortress.
- Bring water and snacks, as there are no facilities at the fortress itself.
- Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and optimal hiking conditions.
- Combine your visit with a hike on the Lebanon Mountain Trail, which passes through Akkar el Atiqa.
- Check local security conditions before visiting due to the area's proximity to the Syrian border.
Getting There
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Car
From Beirut, take the highway north towards Tripoli. Continue past Tripoli to Akkar. From Akkar, follow local roads to Akkar al-Atiqa. Note that the roads can be narrow and winding as you ascend into the mountains. Limited parking is available near the village; from there, it's a 20-minute uphill hike to the fortress.
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Public Transport
Take a bus from Beirut to Abdel Hamid Karim Square in Akkar. From there, take a taxi to Akkar al-Atiqa. Expect to pay around $2-3 for the bus and taxi combined. From the village, it's a 20-minute uphill hike to the fortress.
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Walking
Once you arrive in Aakkar El Aatiqa, follow the marked trail uphill for approximately 20 minutes. The path is rocky and can be steep in places, so wear appropriate footwear. There are no entrance fees or special transport tickets required to access the fortress.
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