9Krak des Chevaliers, Syria

Located in the hills of Syria, the Krak des Chevaliers is a masterpiece of medieval military architecture. Built by the Knights Hospitaller during the Crusades in the 12th century, this fortress was considered one of the most impregnable strongholds of its time. The Krak features thick, sloping walls, multiple layers of fortifications, and a series of defensive towers. It was capable of housing up to 2,000 soldiers, with enough provisions to survive a siege for five years. Its strategic position and impenetrable defenses made it one of the most important castles in the Levant during the Crusades, and today, it remains a symbol of medieval military ingenuity.