In the 11th century, in the days of the Crusaders, a noble French family began to cultivate a mountaintop in the Galilee and turned it into a farming estate. Eventually, to serve as protection against enemies, the farm was developed into a castle fortress. At first, the estate did not have strategic importance, because it was located far from the borders and main arteries where invaders attack and defensive positions are required. However, once the Crusaders moved their center to Acre, the estate took on greater importance, and the German knights fortified the estate, turning it into a truly impressive fortress. The Mamelukes besieged the fortress in 1266 and captured it from the Germans in 1271. The fortress is built along a mountain ridge and is fascinating in its size and complexity. It is well worth a visit anytime of the year. Luckily for us, the Mameluke leader, Baibars, did not completely destroy the structure. To get to the fortress, pass Mitzpe Hila in the northern Galilee. From Route 89 to Mi'ilya, follow the signs for Montfort, which in French means “strong mountain.” After leaving your car, start walking along the path marked in red. The surrounding views are beautiful and include lush forest and mountains and a view over Nahal Kziv. You will reach the fort after about a kilometer of walking (some of which is on a steep incline). Montfort is a large complex, most of which is in ruins, but there are a few parts that remain intact. The fort used to be even larger, with satellite structures such as wells and flour mills which were fed by the Kziv stream below. In the summer, shade is plentiful. In the spring, scattered throughout the lovely natural surroundings are many species of flowers, and in the winter you can spot lots of mushrooms on the forest floor.
(photo credit: ITSIK MAROM)