Qasr Al-Azraq: An Ancient Fort in an Oasis of Jordan
Qasr Al-Azraq is an ancient fort located in the oasis of Azraq in eastern Jordan. Built over 800 years ago, the fort has been a witness to some of the most important events in the history of the region. It was used by various rulers, including the Mamluks, the Ottomans, and the British during World War I. Today, Qasr Al-Azraq is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jordan.
A Brief History of Qasr Al-Azraq
Qasr Al-Azraq was built in the 13th century by the Ayyubid Dynasty and has been the site of numerous battles and sieges throughout its long history. It was used by the Mamluks to control the trade route between Iraq and Syria, and by the Ottomans to control the pilgrimage route to Mecca. During World War I, it was used by the British as an air force base.
What to See at Qasr Al-Azraq
Qasr Al-Azraq is a fascinating place to explore and its great historical importance makes it a must-visit for any traveler to Jordan. The fort is divided into four parts: the entrance, the courtyard, the inner fortress, and the keep. The entrance is guarded by two towers and a drawbridge, and is connected to the courtyard by a long passageway.
The courtyard is decorated with numerous arches and columns and is surrounded by a high stone wall with four towers. The inner fortress consists of two stories, the lower level containing a mosque and the upper level containing the royal apartments. The keep is the highest point of the fort and is where the commander would have lived.
Exploring Qasr Al-Azraq
Qasr Al-Azraq is a great place to explore and there are plenty of things to do. The fort is surrounded by lush green gardens and is home to an array of wildlife, including birds, reptiles, and mammals. Visitors can take a guided tour of the fort to learn about its history and see the various artifacts on display.
There are also restaurants and cafes inside the fort, and visitors can enjoy a traditional Jordanian meal or a cup of herbal tea. There are souvenir shops selling traditional handicrafts and local products, as well as a small museum where you can learn more about the history of the fort.
Visiting Qasr Al-Azraq
Qasr Al-Azraq is located in Jordan’s eastern desert, about 100 kilometers from the capital city of Amman. It is easily accessible by car or bus and there are plenty of hotels in nearby Azraq. The fort is open daily from 8am to 8pm and entry is free.
Conclusion
Qasr Al-Azraq is a fascinating ancient fort that has been a witness to some of the most important events in the history of the region. It is a great place to explore and visitors can learn more about its history and see the various artifacts on display. Qasr Al-Azraq is easily accessible from Amman and is a must-visit for any traveler to Jordan.