Karak Castle | Karak

Information

Landmark: Karak Castle
City: Karak
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Karak Castle, Karak, Jordan, Asia

Karak Castle is a large Crusader fortress located in the city of Al-Karak, situated on a triangular plateau approximately 1,000 meters above sea level. It is one of the most significant examples of military architecture in the Levant, overlooking the ancient King's Highway and the Dead Sea.

Visual Characteristics

The fortress is constructed from dark, volcanic basalt in its lower Crusader-era levels and lighter, finely-dressed limestone in its upper Ayyubid and Mamluk additions. The structure measures roughly 220 meters in length and 125 meters in width at its northern end. It features massive sloping glacis, vaulted stone galleries, subterranean barracks, and a deep dry moat carved into the bedrock on the southern side. The western wall drops precipitously into the Wadi al-Karak.

Location & Access Logistics

The castle is located 140 kilometers south of Amman. Access is via the Desert Highway (Route 15) followed by a turn onto the Al-Karak road, or via the scenic King’s Highway (Route 35). Public transport includes frequent minibuses departing from Amman’s South Terminal (Mujamma al-Janoob) directly to the Al-Karak bus station, followed by a short uphill walk. Limited street parking is available in the surrounding old city, with a small designated lot near the visitor center.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Construction began in the 1140s under Pagan the Butler, the Crusader Lord of Oultrejordain, as a primary stronghold for the Kingdom of Jerusalem. It was famously held by Raynald of Châtillon before being captured by Saladin’s forces in 1188 after a prolonged siege. The castle underwent significant expansion under the Mamluks in the 13th and 14th centuries, particularly under Sultan Baibars, who added the massive residential palace and the southern keep.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the multi-level subterranean vaulted halls and stables. The Karak Archaeological Museum, located in the lower court, contains artifacts ranging from the Neolithic to the Islamic periods. Walking the upper battlements provides 360-degree views of the surrounding highlands and the Dead Sea to the west. Guided tours are available at the entrance, focusing on the architectural transition between Crusader and Islamic fortifications.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The site includes a modern visitor center with ticket offices and restrooms. The surrounding old city of Al-Karak features numerous restaurants, cafes, and small hotels within walking distance. Shaded areas are available within the vaulted interior rooms, though the upper ramparts are fully exposed. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is consistently strong throughout the fortress and town.

Best Time to Visit

The best months for visiting are April to June and September to November to avoid the cold winter winds of the Karak plateau and the intense summer heat. Morning visits (08:00 to 10:00) provide the best lighting for the eastern facades and lower crowds. Sunset offers high-contrast photography of the western valley and distant Dead Sea.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical account describes the 1183 siege by Saladin, during which a royal wedding was taking place inside the castle; Saladin reportedly ordered his siege engines not to fire at the specific tower where the newlyweds were staying. A logistical tip for visitors: carry a flashlight or use a phone light to navigate the unlit lower chambers and tunnels, which remain significantly cooler than the exterior temperature.