Vulture nesting site and amazing view
By Israel Nature and Parks Authority
Nimrod Fortress National Park is an impressive site located on the slopes of Mount Hermon above the Banias Spring. Every corner of the fortress affords glimpses of forested valleys and marvelous vistas.The fortress, also known by its Arabic name, Qala‘at Subeiba, was built in 1228 by Al-Maliq al-‘Aziz ‘Othman, the governor of Banias, to block passage to the army of Friedrich II, who threatened to march from Acre to Damascus. The fortress was built simply at first, but after its conquest by the Mamluk Sultan Beibars it grew huge and sophisticated.
The touring route passes through the monumental gate, behind which is a gigantic lintel with a large, impressive inscription mentioning Beibars’ construction of the fortress in 1275. A toilet from the period can be seen next to the gate-tower. In 1998, a large stone was discovered on which the image of a panther, Beibars’ heraldic symbol, was carved.
The path continues through imposing guard towers and cisterns to the donjon (fortified tower), built as a fortress within the fortress. Especially interesting is the fortress’ secret passageway, made of giant stones, which exits through a doorway well-concealed from the outside.
How to get there?
On road 989 between Kiryat Shmona and Mount Hermon; 30 minutes from Kiryat Shmona.