The remains of the castle can be visited
FortressLatrun (לטרון, اللطرون)
Crusader Castle Latrun (לטרון, اللطرون)
The Crusader Castle of Latrun, a historic fortress ruin, rises strategically at approximately 258 meters above sea level in the Ayalon Valley in Israel. Its remains bear witness to a turbulent past and its importance in securing vital routes.
History+
The origins of the fortress date back to the 12th century when it was built by the Knights Templar. Its primary task was to protect the pilgrim and military road between Jaffa and Jerusalem. Over the course of history, the castle complex was destroyed by Saladin. The name Latrun is today derived from both the Arabic term “el-Toron” and “Castellum Boni Latronis” (Castle of the Good Thief), with the latter referring to the repentant thief alongside Jesus.
Location+
The Crusader Castle of Latrun is located in Latrun, in the Jerusalem District, Jerusalem Region, Israel. It stands at an elevation of approximately 258 meters above sea level.
On site+
Visitors today can explore the ruins of the fortress. In addition to a tower stump, well-preserved wall and vault remains are still visible. The entire area is also crisscrossed with trenches and positions from the wars of 1948 and 1967.
Nearby+
- Ancient City of Emmaus Nicopolis (Ancient Buildings), approx. 1.1 km away
- Crusader Castle of Belveer (Fortress), approx. 15.8 km away
- Crusader Castle of Cola (Qula) (قولة) (Fortress), approx. 23.0 km away
- New Gate (השער החדש, HaSha'ar HeChadash, باب الجديد, Bāb ij-Jdïd) (City Fortification), approx. 23.8 km away
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Source: Wikipedia · Licence: CC BY-SA 4.0 · Image: http://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Datei:Ruine_Latrun.JPG
This description draws on the facts documented in the linked Wikipedia article; Wikipedia content is licensed under CC BY-SA 4.0. Wording and editing: Mobile History.
Location: 31.8314, 34.9827