Hidden within Jordan’s enormous desert are several ancient castles waiting to be explored. They’re not too well known, but they’re the perfect opportunity to glimpse into the past and make the most out of your trip to Jordan.
Built in the 7th and 8th centuries during the Umayyad dynasty, these castles served multiple purposes such as hunting lodges and rest stops for tired travellers. Their architecture showcases the Islamic artistry, as well as their practicality.
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The Best Desert Castles to Explore
- Qasr Al-Kharrana
The Al-Kharrana stands out thanks to its striking design and peculiar inscriptions – having most likely been used as a rest house in the past, it gives great insight into the desert's historical importance.
The upper floors are adorned with ancient graffiti, which undoubtedly adds an interesting touch to the temple’s history.
- Quseir Amra
Most known for its frescoes (for those who don’t know, these are the watercolour paintings done on ceilings and walls in the Italian Renaissance times by artists such as Michelangelo, Giotto and Raphael), the Quseir Amra is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
It once served as a “pleasure palace” and bathhouse.
- Qasr Al-Azraq
This fortress was built from black basalt, having a very interesting and distinctive construction style. It played a mostly strategic role and was once used by Lawrence of Arabia.
How to Get There
Getting there is not too hard. You can either rent a car from Amman or opt for a guided tour. The best time to visit are the cooler months of spring or autumn — this way, you can avoid the extreme heat and have energy to properly look around.
What to Bring
It’s essential to bring water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes to walk, and a hat. If you want to get some photos of the impressive architecture and extensive desert landscapes, bringing a camera is a good idea (or, if you don’t have one, your smartphone camera should do just fine).
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Nearby Attractions
If you want to make the most of your trip, we highly recommend visiting nearby sites such as Wadi Rum or the Dead Sea. And if you’d like to fully experience the local culture you can interact with Bedouin communities and try traditional Jordanian dishes (such as Mansaf or Makloubeh, for example).
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