Crusader Castle Qalansawe (قلنسوة‎, קַלַנְסֻוָה)

In the early 12th century, Qalansawe was a small fortified complex with a settlement that originally belonged to the Lord of Bethsan but was effectively administered by Caesarea. In 1128, the complex was handed over to the Order of St. John, a transaction later confirmed by John of Bethsan and Walter of Caesarea. After the Battle of Hattin in 1187, Qalansawe fell to Sultan Saladin. It is believed that the Crusaders recaptured the castle in 1191 during the Third Crusade, with the presence of a Hospitaller garrison only confirmed from 1207. In 1265, the Mamluks conquered Qalansawe, divided the territory, and led to a loss of importance in favor of nearby Tira.

The Crusader castle of Qalansawe is situated in the city of Qalansawe in the Central District of Israel, at an elevation of approximately 39 meters above sea level.

Today, the remains of the Crusader castle are integrated into modern buildings. A built-over tower and a fortified hall, which now serves as a mosque, as well as some underground vaulted halls, are still discernible.

• Crusader castle Hurvat Burgata (fortress), approx. 5.2 km away
• Crusader castle Caco (fortress), approx. 8.6 km away
• Crusader castle Arsuf (fortress), approx. 19.3 km away
• Ancient city of Samaria (ancient buildings), approx. 19.5 km away