Crusader Remains
(18 km from Batroun)

    South of Tripoli on the coast is a place of great interest to those willing to do a little walking and investigating. This is the site of "Ampi" mentioned in the 14th century B.C. "Tell al-Amara Letters" and the "Nephin" of the Crusader period where a formidable crusader castle once stood.
    A 100-meter-long moat with a rocky spur that supported the castle's drawbridge cuts the peninsula into two sections. The "island" section is covered with interesting rock-cut tombs, olive presses, salt pans and the remains of the Crusader castle itself.
    Three seaside churches should be visited. "Our Lady of the Wind" is a tiny ruined structure with remains of Crusader period wall paintings. One can see two mounted Saints, George and Demetrios, the figure of Christ in majesty, two evangelists, more saints and a large figure of the Virgin calming the stormy sea.