Al Barqawi Castle, Town of Shufa
Named after the Al Barqawi family and Sheikh Issa Al Barqawi, the castle is situated in the heart of Shufa village, about 8 km southeast of Tulkarm. Dating back to the Ottoman period, this historical building features over 25 rooms and reflects the architectural style of the feudal era in Ottoman Palestine.
As one of the most significant castles in the Tulkarem region, it holds historical importance from the late Ottoman period. The castle was central to various historical events, including the resistance against Napoleon's campaign in 1799, where Sheikh Khalil Al-Barqawi was martyred. It also played a crucial role during Ibrahim Pasha's campaign against the peasant revolution in 1831 and the 1936 revolution against the British mandate.
The castle comprises a basement and two floors. The basement houses several rooms, wells, and storage areas, some of which may have served as a prison. Currently, some of these rooms are used as a museum displaying popular and heritage exhibits. The first floor includes various sections such as the iwan, a guest house, and residential rooms for different purposes, including service areas, food preparation, and stables. Yards around the castle contain horse stables, training tracks, rooms for servants, livestock barns, and an olive oil press.
The upper floor features lofts and residences for the sheikh and his entourage, along with observation areas. Some parts of the building, particularly on the western side, are demolished, and there are neglected areas on the southwest side.
The castle, with its 25 rooms, was restored by the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities with foreign funding and is now open to the public. It is currently under the direct supervision of the Tulkarm Antiquities Directorate, with a permanent caretaker from the local community.