Jordanian Tourism Website

Although Kerak had been used throughout history, it was the arrival of the Crusaders in the 12^th century that made it famous. It was built by King Baldwin I of Jerusalem in 1132 CE. Kerak formed part of a great line of Crusader castles stretching from Aqaba to Turkey and it became the capital of Oultrejourdain It taxed passing caravans and itself and Jerusalem prospered from this. Reynaud de Chatillon, the governor of the castle (infamous for throwing his captives off the top of Karak’s battlements with wooden boxes over their heads to ensure that they remained conscious until they hit the ground) was eventually defeated and executed by the Muslim leader known as Saladin in 1187 CE. The fortress was defeated by the Muslims in 1188 CE and signalled the start of the Crusaders downfall. The castle was later used by successive conquerors including the Ottomans.

The castle is open free of charge during daylight hours, while the museum is open daily 09:00-17:00 with a 1 JD admission. Accommodation in the town is quite basic, and it is easy enough to reach Kerak from Petra, the Dead Sea or even Amman.

Shobak was built in 115 CE by Balwin I of Jerusalem. It was one of the castles which stretched through the Levant. I housed around 6000 christiens and was attacked numerous times by Saladin. It eventually was taken in 1189 CE. Shobak was restored in the 14^th Century by the Maluks. It is an interesting sight to visit and has been the subject of a number of archeological digs. The castle is quite isolated and is not really a major attraction on the tourist route. It is however fascinating and is relatively easy to get to from either the Kings Highway or the Desert Highway.