| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Krak des Chevaliers (Arabic: قلعة الحصن, Qalʿat al‑Ḥiṣn) |
| Location | Near Al‑Husn, Talkalakh District, Homs Governorate, ~40 km west of Homs |
| Built | First fort in 1031; major reconstruction by Knights Hospitaller between 1142–1170 |
| Architectural Style | Concentric Crusader fortress with double walls, towers, moat, chapel, and water system |
| Historical Significance | Key military and administrative center for Crusaders from 12th–13th centuries |
| UNESCO Status | World Heritage Site (since 2006); on UNESCO Danger List since 2013 due to war damage |
| Condition | Largely intact but suffered interior damage during Syrian Civil War; restoration underway |
| Accessibility | By road from Homs; local tours often include it in western Syria itineraries |
| Entrance Fee | Small fee or donation welcomed |
| Best Time to Visit | Spring and autumn mornings for cooler weather and clear views |
| Photography | Allowed; excellent for panoramic and architectural shots |
| Guided Tours | Recommended for historical insight and navigation |
Perched on a strategic ridge overlooking the Homs Gap, Krak des Chevaliers is one of the finest examples of Crusader military architecture in the world. Rebuilt by the Knights Hospitaller in the 12th century atop an earlier fortress, it was further fortified into a spectacular concentric castle. Able to house a garrison of up to 2,000, it served as both a defensive bastion and administrative stronghold until its capture by the Mamluks in 1271
Why Visit
Krak des Chevaliers offers a remarkable window into medieval military engineering and Crusader-era life. Its imposing double-wall structure, dramatic towers, chapel, and internal systems showcase the height of fortress design. Even though the site sustained damage during the Syrian Civil War, much of its grandeur remains, and restoration efforts continue to preserve its legacy
How to Reach
The castle is located about 40 km west of Homs, near the village of Al‑Husn. Accessible by private car or tour vehicle via the Homs–Tartus highway, the drive from Damascus takes around 3–4 hours. Most regional tour operators include Krak des Chevaliers as a highlight of western Syria itineraries
What to Know Before You Go
No ticket booth or strict entrance protocols—visitors may pay a small fee or leave a donation to the onsite caretaker. Facilities are minimal; bring water, sun protection, and wear sturdy shoes for walking the ruins. Some areas inside were damaged or looted during recent conflicts, so guided tours are helpful for understanding both the site’s history and its current state
Nearby Attractions
- Qalʿat Salāḥ al‑Dīn – Another UNESCO-inscribed fortress about an hour northeast
- Al-Husn village – Traditional town adjacent to the castle
- Other Crusader castles and ruins in the Homs region
- Scenic views of the Orontes Valley and surrounding hills
Restoration work continues, and experts hope to revive Krak des Chevaliers as a symbol of Syria’s rich historical heritage and future tourism recovery
