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Byblos Citadel: A Crusader Fortress with Ancient Roots

Explore the Byblos Citadel, a historic Lebanese castle with Crusader, Roman, and Phoenician ruins, offering stunning Mediterranean views.

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The Byblos Citadel, constructed by Crusaders in the 12th century, stands as a testament to the city's layered history. Overlooking the Mediterranean Sea, it incorporates Roman and Phoenician remnants, offering panoramic views and a glimpse into Byblos's multifaceted past.

A brief summary to Byblos Citadel

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the uneven terrain and climbing the Citadel ramparts.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy the best lighting for photography.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll through the Byblos Old Souk and a meal at one of the harbor-side restaurants.
  • Check for local festivals or cultural events happening in Byblos, especially during the summer months.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Byblos Old Souk, head towards the main entrance. The Citadel is a short walk from the souk, clearly visible and well-signposted. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes, and there are no costs involved.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Byblos. A short taxi ride from anywhere in the city center to the Citadel will cost approximately 50,000-75,000 LBP, depending on traffic and the driver. Confirm the price before starting your journey.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by public transport from Beirut, get off at the Byblos highway exit. From there, it is a 20-30 minute walk to the Citadel, or you can take a taxi or 'service' (shared taxi) for around 25,000-50,000 LBP. The bus from Beirut to Byblos costs approximately 60,000-100,000 LBP.

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Discover more about Byblos Citadel

The Byblos Citadel, also known as the Castle of Giblet, is a Crusader castle that dominates the ancient city of Byblos. Built in the 12th century from indigenous limestone and the remains of Roman structures, the Citadel reflects the architectural style typical of Crusader fortifications. Its strategic position on a hill overlooking the Mediterranean Sea allowed it to function as both a military fortress and a symbol of Crusader dominance in the region. Byblos itself is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with a history dating back over 7,000 years. Long before the Crusaders built the citadel, Byblos had already established itself as a major cultural and economic hub in the ancient world. The city's origins can be traced back to the Neolithic period, but it rose to prominence during the Bronze Age, around 3000 BCE, as one of the principal cities of the Phoenicians. Visitors to the Citadel can explore the well-preserved ruins, climb the castle's ramparts for panoramic views of the city and the Mediterranean Sea. The Byblos site museum is located inside the castle, and it displays remains of the excavations undertaken on the site of the archeological preserve of Byblos. Nearby stand a few Egyptian temples, the Phoenician royal necropolis, and the Roman amphitheater.

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