In all my years of traveling to the North of Lebanon (since my parents are originally from Akkar – in the North), never have we stopped to visit the Fortress of Raymond de Saint-Gilles, simply because it was closed and ironically in ruins.
The Citadel stands up on the hill, that is, it can be seen from most parts of Tripoli, but it was tricky getting there. After asking the locals, we learned that only recently it has been opened to the public, or let’s say, the tourists whom are interested in knowing its history. There were few signs on the crowded streets, and the one leading to the Citadel was pointing to the wrong direction! So we did as the locals do, ignored the sign (of course, after following the sign into the wrong path first -- laughing) and asked a couple of men walking by.
Such a huge place, with so much to see… there are many staircases, leading to different levels. Being there reminded me of the years back in College when one of our professor’s whom I had a major crush on, took us to study sites and ancient structures. This time, instead of pinpointing the structures and their settlement era, we started picturing what took place in many of the chambers. It is incredible how history keeps repeating itself because we are so stubborn not to learn from our ancestors, and be less needy and more giving! As it is written in the Bible, Matthew 10:8 – “freely you have received, freely give.”
I wonder how many residents have actually visited the site? With such a rich and live edifice in the center of their big city, how can they choose to remain ignorant of its existence?
Following our itinerary, we drove up to Sir El Donnieh to explore the Zahlan Grotto discovered not long ago by the owner of the land where it dwells. Before that though, we passed by the “DREAM PALACE” which honestly wasn’t so dreamy to me.
The road leading to the Zahlan Grotto was narrow and had a breath-taking view.
As most of you might have heard, Jeita Grotto is the big deal in Lebanon, but Zahlan is worth exploring. And guess what, in contrary to Jeita Grotto, we can take photos of the magnificent natural water formations. Allow me to pour my indignation to the garbage that is thrown inside the cave along with the ugly writings they leave in the walls! Unfortunately, Mahmoud (one of the guides) was commenting that they are constantly picking up after the visitors; as to the nasty writings on the walls, they can’t do much.
Oh, how could I forget about the suspension bridge across the valley! It isn’t complete yet, but one can walk up to its last piece hanging. Three of my friends stroll on it and I photographed them; yeah, I didn’t find the courage to step on it, up until Oleg told me to focus on the side bars and only look in front of me. Grateful to have great friends!
This specific photo confirms the title of this blog… Thanks to Oleg!
