Mayfouk features a fortified natural cave, probably dating back to the Crusader era, facing “Our Lady Monastery of Mayfouk”. The cavity is known as Saint Charbel el-Hsar, meaning the fortified place.
Structure
The cavity is similar to Cavea de Memboa located in Hermel, however, of a smaller size and relatively limited depth and height. It is made up of a main space whose ground is arranged into two main levels which follow the rock’s geological stratification.
The open face of the cavity, on the southern side, was closed by a wall built with well-squared blocks arranged in regular courses. An open door in this wall provides access to the interior of the cavity. It is framed by five arrow slit openings, one of which is located on its western side and four on its eastern side, giving the site a fortified appearance.
Based on the cavity’s size, it may have served as an observation post along a Roman-era road that connected Byblos to the Bekaa. Remnants of the Roman-era road are still visible today on the western side of the cavity.
Karim Sokhn
Tour Operator & Tour Guide
References:
https://www.aroundannaya.com/page/site/saint-charbel-el-hsar-fortified-cave
