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Beaufort Castle: A Crusader Fortress with a Storied Past

Explore Beaufort Castle: A historic Crusader fortress in Southern Lebanon with panoramic views and a rich, battle-scarred past. Open daily!

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Beaufort Castle, also known as Qala'at al-Shaqif, is a Crusader fortress in Southern Lebanon near the village of Arnoun. Perched atop a high hill, it offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and has been a strategic military site for centuries. Explore its ruins and discover its fascinating history, marked by numerous battles and changing rulers.

A brief summary to Beaufort Castle

  • 8GFJ+MV9, Arnoun, LB
  • Monday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Friday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-7:30 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-7:30 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the castle involves walking on uneven terrain.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Bring a camera to capture the stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
  • Consider taking a guided tour to learn more about the castle's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Car

    From Nabatiyeh, follow the road towards upper Nabatiyeh, which leads to Arnoun. Beaufort Castle is approximately 2 kilometers from Arnoun. Look for signs directing you to the castle. Parking is available near the site and is typically free.

  • Public Transport

    From Marjayoun, take a bus towards Arnoun. These buses typically run every 30 minutes. Once in Arnoun, you can walk to the castle, which is about a 10-15 minute walk uphill. Alternatively, you can take a local taxi from Arnoun to the castle entrance. Confirm the fare before starting your ride.

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Discover more about Beaufort Castle

Beaufort Castle, or Qala'at al-Shaqif (Castle of the High Rock), is a historic Crusader fortress located in the Nabatieh Governorate of Southern Lebanon, approximately 1 kilometer south-southeast of Arnoun. The castle's strategic location, atop a 710-meter hill, provides commanding views of Southern Lebanon and Northern Palestine, making it a valuable military asset throughout history. While the exact origins of the site are unknown, historians believe it was fortified even before its capture by Crusader forces in 1139. Fulk, the King of Jerusalem, seized the site and granted it to the lords of Sidon, who initiated the construction of the castle. In 1187, Saladin's forces captured Beaufort, but the Crusaders retook it 60 years later. The castle finally fell to the Islamic forces in 1268 under Sultan Baibars. Over the centuries, Beaufort Castle has been controlled by various powers, including Emir Fakhredin II in the 17th century. The castle suffered damage from the Galilee earthquake of 1837 and was later used as a quarry and shelter. In the 20th century, the castle's strategic importance resurfaced during the Lebanese Civil War and the 1982 Lebanon War. It was held by the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and subsequently captured and used by Israeli forces until their withdrawal in 2000. Today, Beaufort Castle stands as a testament to Lebanon's tumultuous history. Visitors can explore the well-preserved ruins, including the walls, towers, and gates, and take in the breathtaking panoramic views. The site is open daily and offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the enduring legacy of this ancient fortress.

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