The Castle of St Louis — also called the Land Castle — stands on an artificial mound at the southern edge of the old town, built by the French King Louis IX around 1254 during his crusade in the Levant. Long ruined, the surviving walls and towers are dramatic against the skyline and give an indication of the scale of the original fortification.
The site is more atmospheric than instructive: there are no signs, no admission, and large parts are inaccessible. But the climb up rewards you with a wide view across the old town to the Sea Castle and the harbour. It is a good vantage point at sunset, when the light turns the limestone walls a warm gold.