Background

Nimrod Fortress National Park: A Medieval Marvel

Explore Israel's largest medieval fortress in Nimrod Fortress National Park, offering stunning views and a rich history in the Golan Heights.

4.8

Nimrod Fortress National Park is home to Israel's largest surviving medieval Muslim fortress. Perched on a high ridge in the Golan Heights, the fortress offers breathtaking views and a fascinating glimpse into the region's complex history, from the Ayyubids and Mamluks to its later use as an Ottoman prison.

A brief summary to Nimrod Fortress National Park

  • Monday 8 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-4 pm
  • Friday 8 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 8 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the terrain within the fortress and on the surrounding trails can be rocky and uneven.
  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  • Bring a camera to capture the breathtaking panoramic views from the fortress towers.
  • Check the weather forecast before your visit, as conditions in the mountains can change rapidly.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    Nimrod Fortress National Park is accessible by car via Road 989, located between Kiryat Shmona and Mount Hermon. From Kiryat Shmona, the drive is approximately 30 minutes. From Galilee, take Route 87 and follow signs to the park, which is about 15 kilometers from Majdal Shams. Parking is available near the entrance.

  • Public Transport

    To reach Nimrod Fortress National Park via public transport, take a bus to Majdal Shams from cities like Tiberias or Haifa. From Majdal Shams, you can either walk to the fortress (approximately 5-6 kilometers uphill) or hire a local taxi. A taxi from Majdal Shams to the park may cost around 50-100 NIS, but it's advisable to negotiate the price beforehand.

Unlock the Best of Nimrod Fortress National Park

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Nimrod Fortress National Park

Nimrod Fortress National Park, also known as Nimrod Castle or Qal'at al-Subeiba (Castle of the Large Cliff), is a captivating historical site located on a high ridge in the Golan Heights, near Mount Hermon. This impressive medieval fortress, the largest surviving of its kind in Israel, offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore its well-preserved ruins and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Originally constructed in 1229 by Al-Aziz Uthman, a nephew of Saladin, the fortress was built to protect the route to Damascus from potential Crusader attacks. The fortress was strategically positioned to control one of the region's main roads, from Tyre on the Mediterranean coast, through the upper Hula Valley and Banias to Damascus. In 1260, the Mongols briefly captured the fortress, but it later fell under Mamluk rule, during which Sultan Baibars significantly strengthened the fortifications and added towers. The fortress lost its strategic importance after the Muslim conquest of Acre in the late 13th century. Visitors can explore the fortress's many points of interest, including the Northwest Tower with its Arabic inscription, the Western Tower, the large water cistern, and the secret passage. The views from the towers are breathtaking, encompassing Mount Hermon, the Golan Heights, the Galilee, and the Hula Valley. The park also features diverse flora and fauna, with hiking trails winding through the scenic terrain.

Popular Experiences near Nimrod Fortress National Park

Popular Hotels near Nimrod Fortress National Park

Select Currency