Shobak Castle (Montreal) | Karak

Information

Landmark: Shobak Castle (Montreal)
City: Karak
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Shobak Castle (Montreal), Karak, Jordan, Asia

Shobak Castle, originally called Montreal (Mont Royal), is a Crusader fortress situated on a conical hilltop in the Ma'an Governorate of southern Jordan. It stands at an elevation of 1,330 meters above sea level, commanding the strategic trade and pilgrimage routes between Syria and Egypt.

Visual Characteristics

The fortress is built from yellow-tinted limestone and features a multi-layered defensive system. The exterior is defined by massive sloping glacis and cylindrical towers, many of which bear intricate Arabic inscriptions from later Mamluk renovations. The interior contains a complex network of vaulted stone chambers, two Crusader churches, and a prominent palace complex. The most distinct feature is a subterranean escape tunnel consisting of 375 steps cut directly into the bedrock leading to a spring at the base of the hill.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located 190 kilometers south of Amman and approximately 30 kilometers north of Petra. Access is via the King’s Highway (Route 35). While there is no direct large-scale public transport, local minibuses from Ma'an or Wadi Musa (Petra) pass through the village of Shobak. A paved road leads from the highway to a parking area at the foot of the castle, followed by a steep 10-minute walk to the main gate.

Historical & Ecological Origin

King Baldwin I of Jerusalem ordered the construction of the castle in 1115 CE during his expansion into the Transjordan region. It served as a vital toll-collection point and military outpost for the Kingdom of Jerusalem until it was captured by Saladin in 1189 CE after an 18-month siege. Following the Crusader period, the Ayyubids and Mamluks significantly expanded the fortifications and added residential quarters.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can traverse the subterranean spring tunnel, which requires a flashlight and physical agility. Exploration of the two Crusader-era churches reveals remains of stone arches and baptisteries. The gatehouse area contains Mamluk-era inscriptions and architectural details. Walking the perimeter of the ramparts provides panoramic views of the surrounding fruit orchards and the rugged topography of the southern highlands.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The site features a basic visitor center near the parking area with restrooms and a small ticket office. Shade is abundant within the vaulted stone rooms but nonexistent on the battlements. There are limited food vendors at the site entrance, with more options available in the modern town of Shobak, 2 kilometers away. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally stable throughout the fortress.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal months for visiting are April to May and September to October. Due to its high elevation, the castle is significantly colder than the Dead Sea or Petra; winter visits often involve freezing winds and occasional snow. Early morning light is best for photographing the eastern walls and inscriptions, while late afternoon provides a clear view of the valley to the west.

Facts & Legends

According to historical accounts, during the 1189 siege, the Crusader defenders reportedly sold their wives and children for food to avoid surrender, and many suffered from permanent blindness due to the dark, salt-heavy environment of the castle’s deep wells. A logistical tip for visitors: wear sturdy hiking boots, as many of the stone surfaces and stairs are uneven or worn smooth by centuries of use.