Tzuba, the Crusader Fortress

Tzuba Fortress, also known as Belmont, was built in 1170 as a Crusader stronghold overlooking the road to Jerusalem. The fortress was occupied throughout history, and has not been restored, which is part of what makes this particular guard post unique.

When you look around the fortress you can see the different time periods if you know what to look for. A guide can point out the different stone types and the thickness and the types of mortar; each one distinguishes the period of construction. 

There was a Jewish settlement on this site during the period of the Book of Joshua.

A cave, thought to be the residence of St. John the Baptist, was found nearby.

During the Crusader period it was used as a crusader fortress, built right at the beginning of the circular fortress time period, when double walls had just begun to be used to guard the inner keep.

Throughout the Ottoman period, the fortress housed the village leaders. A great deal of construction occurred during this period. The differences in the building of the various periods can be seen in the size of the stones and their smoothness, as the crusader period remains are much larger, and fit together without mortar.

A large battle raged here during the War of Independence, and military trenches can be found if you know what to look for.

My husband and I live about 15 minutes from the fortress, and it's one of our favorite hikes. Marked trails circle the base, and there are places throughout which are set up for a picnic, providing a perfect view. It's clear why the fortress was built here. The passages are clearly visible and easy to see from all sides.

The only problem with Belmont is that it is old and not restored. It is, thus, foolhardy to explore unless you are with someone who knows the area very well, especially where it is safe to walk.

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