Horns of Hattin (From Hebrew: The horns in the wheat field) is an extinct volcano with two peaks (Hence its name) in the lower Galilee, about 3 miles west of Tiberias. Located along the main road to Tiberias, on July 4^th, 1187 CE, the Crusaders were trapped at the Horns of Hattin while heading to Tiberias. Defeated by Saladin, the Crusaders lost control over all of the Holy Land till the third Crusade in 1191 CE.

Today, Medieval history fans assemble at the site and reenact the battle every year on July 4th.

Horns of Hattin in Christian Tradition

In the 19^th century, some scholars suggested the location of Jesus’ “Sermon on the Mount” at the Horns of Hattin. Today (2023), a pyramidical monument erected by the “Church of God” suggests the Horns of Hattin is where Jesus recruited his Disciples. Indeed, according to Mark 13:13, it also places “on a mountain.”

Visiting the Horns of Hattin

The site is on the side of the road to Tiberias (route 77). A dirt road reaches the foot of the hill. At its northern foothill is a Druze shrine complex over the tomb of Nebi Shu’ayb.

A hike to the Horns of Hattin can be combined with a guided day tour of the Galilee.