Standing atop a hill that now dominates the heart of the Azor area in Israel, the Castle of the Plain, or “Chateau de Plain” in French, beckons travelers to explore its storied past. This Crusader fortress, also known as Castellum Balneorum in Latin, witnessed the ebb and flow of history as it served as a sanctuary for pilgrims journeying to Jerusalem. Though its physical presence has faded into ruins, the echoes of its significance still resonate through time.
A Sanctuary for Pilgrims: Origins and Purpose
The Castle of the Plain emerged from the sands of history in 1099, conceived during the fervor of the First Crusade. Positioned strategically on the hill’s crest, this fortress, aptly named for its vantage on the surrounding plain, fulfilled a crucial role as a haven for pilgrims en route to Jerusalem. It offered respite, protection, and a moment of reprieve for those undertaking the arduous journey.
A Cycle of Rise and Ruin
Through the passage of time, the Castle of the Plain experienced both moments of triumph and despair. In 1187, Saladin’s forces laid siege to the citadel, leaving it in ruins. However, the resilient spirit of restoration prevailed, and in 1191, Richard I of England breathed new life into the fortress, restoring its walls and significance. A transfer of ownership to the Templar order added yet another layer to its history.
In the tumultuous years that followed, the citadel shifted hands once more. Muslim forces recaptured the fortress in 1192, leading to its eventual reconstruction in the 13th century. Yet, as empires clashed and dominions shifted, the Castle of the Plain faced its final demise in 1268 under the might of the Mamluks.
Unveiling the Remnants
Amidst the tranquil garden that now envelops the remnants of the Castle of the Plain, visitors can uncover a glimpse of its former grandeur. The archaeological remains include a section of a boundary wall and the lower segment of a tower, both harkening back to the 12th century. These remnants are a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the Crusaders who once called this fortress home.
In the western expanse of the hill, a mosque stands as a testament to the Ottoman period, yet another layer in the tapestry of history that this site embodies. The grounds also hold millstones, Kora, and Borg craters, each bearing silent witness to the lives and endeavors that once filled this space.
Gottfried of Bayonne: A Leader and His Legend
The Castle of the Plain carries with it a tale of Count Gottfried, a figure who set forth from France on a monumental quest. Among the leaders of the First Crusade, Gottfried’s journey led him to conquer Jerusalem in 1099, cementing his place in history as the first Christian ruler of the Kingdom of Jerusalem. His legacy is intertwined with the fortresses he built, including the one that graces the hill of Azor.
Legend intertwines with history as a Jewish Kabbalah tale recounts Gottfried’s encounter with Rashi, a revered Jewish leader. In this lore, Rashi foretold that Gottfried would return from his endeavors accompanied by only three surviving horsemen. A twist of fate would see this prophecy fulfilled, and Gottfried’s wrath took an unexpected turn.
As the Chateau de Plain stands today, it carries the weight of centuries, a silent guardian of stories that span empires and faiths. Amidst its remnants, travelers can envision the pilgrims’ journeys, the battles fought, and the legacy of leaders like Gottfried who left their mark upon its stones.
More Crusader Castles in Israel:
