Krak des Chevaliers, one of the most spectacular and well-preserved Crusaders’ castles known, has been taken over by the Syrian army, accordingt to Lebanese newspaper The Daily Star.

As reported in the newspaper, the army’s invasion took place following battles with rebel forces.

It is also stated that Al-Jadeed reporter Ramez al-Qadi, who is embedded with Syrian government forces, broadcasted live from a hill overlooking the fort, moments after it fall to troops loyal to Syrian President Bashar Assad.

At least 11 rebels were killed and more than 45 wounded in a Syrian army ambush and ensuing gunbattle in Al-Hosn which takes its name from Qalaat Al-Hosn, Arabic for Krak de Chavaliers. The fort’s fall comes days after the Syrian army seized control of the strategic rebel-held town of Yabroud in the region of Qalamoun.