Facts about Kerak Fortress
Jordan's Castle of Karak expresses a rich history and culture. Its medieval history tells an epic story about past centuries. Located in the attractive southern city of Karak, this stunning castle is a focal point for visitors and those interested in history and culture.
The Castle of Karak was a crucial point of view in the wars and conflicts that have taken place throughout history. Today it is an excellent tourist site where visitors have the opportunity to explore its secrets.
A significant portion of Jordan's history and cultural legacy, the history of the Karak Fort depicts the upheavals and changes the area has experienced over the millennia. It dates back to the Middle Ages and the Middle Eastern Crusades. Built in the 12th century AD during the Latin Kingdom's rule of Jerusalem, the castle was part of the Crusaders' strategy to expand their control in the region and counter Islamic attacks.
Following the conclusion of the crusades, the control of the citadel has been subject to a number of rulers and states in the region including the Mamluks and the Ottomans. Nowadays, the chateau has developed into an archaeological museum exhibiting its former past, which presently draws tourists from around the globe.
After the crusades, the citadel's control moved between many rulers and states in the region, including the Mamluks and the Ottomans. In modern times, the castle has been transformed into an archaeological museum that showcases its ancient history and attracts visitors from all over the world.
Castle of Karak is located in the Karak area of southern Jordan, specifically on a high hill that rises approximately 1000 meters above sea level. The castle is located about 140 kilometers south of the Jordanian capital, Amman, and forms part of the region's spectacular landscape.
Karak Castle is built on a high spot enjoying a command of the southern plains and valleys of Jordan, which makes it a perfect site for vigilant observation and defence of the region. Additionally, the castle’s position lies on an historical trade route that connected the Mediterranean Sea with the Red Sea, making it an important place for commerce and travel in ancient times.
Termed the battlement, the castle showcases a sophisticated arrangement of monitors and attack repelling platforms. Over and above that, the castle is interconnected with a system of underground passageways and corridors that facilitated easy access between different sections of the castle, as well as of readily available escape routes.
The Karak Castle has been designed to allow defenders to continue to defend it for long periods, and additional defence facilities and improvements have been added over the ages to enhance its strength and effectiveness in protecting the region.