One of the largest crusader castles in the Levant, Crusader Castle, or the Kerak Castle is also one of the places most frequented by tourists. The same is also referred to as ‘Karak in Moab’ in many books and references. The timeless stone castle reflects a mixture of European, Byzantine, and Arab designs and is a remarkable example of Crusader architecture.
Built on the top of mountains, profound glaciers and steep slopes once acted as a natural armguard to this majestic fort. Its history dates back to the 12th century when Raynald of Chatallion married Stephanie of Milly and took possession of the castle. Gradually, Mamluk Sultan took over the throne and Karak flourished as a significant administrative centre in Jordan. Kerak Castle was declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 after which it became a noteworthy sightseeing place in Al-Karak, Jordan.
The narrow passages of Crusader Gate, worn-out barracks, weary towers, and extended kitchen corridors; all speak of a bygone era when Jordan was more than just a city. The Greek inceptions inside the shady tunnels take back Al Karak’s history to the time of Ibrahim Pasha, the son of Muhammad Ali. Just above the Crusader gallery stands the castle terrace from where you can grasp some extraordinary views of the backdrop. Don’t miss the 13th century Mamluk Palace that was built for Sultan Al Nasir Muhammad in 1311. The open-air reception hall represents some wonderful variations of Islamic architecture that are worth your time in AL-Karak.
The nearby Islamic museum is also a must-visit. The displays of the museum include collections from the castle and relics excavated from the surrounding area.
Though restoration work is still going on at the site, tourists are allowed to explore the tunnels, corridors, domestic residence, prison cells, etc. Even the inscribed walls, kitchen, etc. are still found in good shape. Visitors can even catch hold of the Dead Sea from the castle roofs on a sunny day.
From Amman (city center), The Crusader Castle can be reached via the following ways:
You could drive for 1 hour 35-minute(129.3 kilometers) from Amman to 'Izra, and walk the rest. It will cost around 10 to 15 JD ($14 to $21) in fuel
Alternatively, you can take a bus from Amman Tabarbour Terminal to Karak terminal for 2 hours 20 minutes(130 km). The estimated fare is around 2 to 5 JD($3 to $8 USD)
October to March
Sunday: 08.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Monday: 08.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Tuesday: 08.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Wednesday: 08.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Thursday: 08.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Friday: 08.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
Saturday: 08.00 a.m. to 4.00 p.m.
April to September
Sunday: 08.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Monday: 08.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Tuesday: 08.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Wednesday: 08.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Thursday: 08.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Friday: 08.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Saturday: 08.00 a.m. to 7.00 p.m.
Waiting Time
Yes.
There is often a line to pass the security checkpoint, and on the Jordan pass checking line. So you have to wait about 10 to 15 minutes, especially on weekends and pick hours.
Entrance Fee
2 JD.
Free with Jordan pass.
Time you can spend
2 to 3 hours
Weather
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