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.

    Saint Catherine's is another lovely Crusader period church still serving Enfe's Greek Orthodox community. Next to it is the twin 17th-18th century church of Mar Semaan and Mar Michael. Here you can see the jars that were incorporated into the ceiling to absorb and reduce echoes. Another ancient church is Mar Youhanna, which is surrounded by some curious rock cuttings.