Project UNESCO Tourist Trails and new signage systems04 — The East Tower

East Tower — Construction and Defensive Role

The East Tower is a compact yet strategically important defensive structure built directly into the natural rock. The Crusaders combined the cliff face with their own stone masonry so seamlessly that the tower appears to emerge naturally from the mountain. This blend of natural terrain and medieval construction reflects how the entire castle likely appeared in the 1100s. From a distance, much of the fortress would have been difficult to see as it blended into the rocky landscape. Up close, however, structures like this tower revealed the true strength of the castle, with guards watching through the narrow slit window and prepared to defend the site. From this point, you can still observe the rooms carved and constructed within the rock, offering a clear sense of how well concealed and impressive the Crusader stronghold once was.