Qlayaat derives its name from the historical citadels located here, which used to constitute one of Tripoli’s defense centers. Some of these multi-style towers and walls can still be seen today. The town is home to a military airport known as President Renee Mouawad Airport, in addition to Sheikh Merhi shrine and Sheikh Sabeaa shrine. One of the main characteristics of the village is its Sufi sheikhs’ festivals or “Mawaled.”