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Mseilha Fort: A Sentinel of Lebanese History

Explore Mseilha Fort, a historic Lebanese fortress with stunning views and a rich 17th-century Ottoman legacy.

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Mseilha Fort, near Hamat, Lebanon, is a 17th-century fortress built by Emir Fakhr ed-Dine II on a narrow limestone rock. It guarded the route between Tripoli and Beirut and offers a glimpse into Lebanon's rich military history.

A brief summary to Mseilha Fort

  • 7MFQ+FW6, Hamat, LB
  • 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 fort's interior and navigating the rocky terrain.
  • Visit during the spring or fall for pleasant weather and optimal hiking conditions.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Batroun or Tripoli to explore more of Lebanon's northern coast.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Batroun, head north on Route 51 towards Hamat. Continue for approximately 15 km until you see signs for Mseilha Fort. Parking is available near the entrance.

  • Public Transport

    Take a shared taxi (service) from Batroun to Hamat for approximately 3,000 to 5,000 LBP. From Hamat, take a local taxi to Mseilha Fort, roughly 5 km away, for around 10,000 LBP.

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Discover more about Mseilha Fort

Mseilha Fort, also known as “Qala'at Mseilha,” is a captivating medieval fortress located near the coastal city of Batroun in northern Lebanon. Perched atop a long, narrow limestone rock formation in the Nahr el-Jawz River valley, the fort was constructed in the 17th century by Emir Fakhr ed-Dine II to protect the trade route between Tripoli and Beirut. The fort's strategic location provided a commanding view of the surrounding area, allowing defenders to control access to the road below. Its thick walls, constructed from sandstone blocks, have withstood the test of time, bearing witness to numerous battles and playing a crucial role in the region's defense. The architecture showcases a blend of Ottoman and local styles, featuring defensive walls, towers, a fortified gatehouse, interior chambers, and courtyards. Visitors can explore the various chambers and courtyards within the fort, imagining the lives of the soldiers who once resided there. The site is freely accessible to the public. The fort offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including the Nahr al-Jawz river and lush mountains.

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