Cut right into the dramatic cliffs overlooking the town of Jezzine, Niha Fort is one of the most impressive historical landmarks in Lebanon’s Chouf area. There are indications that the cave has been inhabited since Roman times, but it is probably most famous for being the refuge of Emir Fakhreddine Maan II, one of the Chouf’s legendary Druze princes and a figure still celebrated in the country today.
Much of the fort’s facade has decayed and fallen away from the rock face, but today you can still walk right up to where it once stood and take a look at the sections cut out for chambers and beams inside. It’s also a beautiful spot for views across the valley, and worth a quick stop-off in any itinerary that travels through this part of the country.
