Ajloun Castle, known locally as Qal'at ar-Rabad, sits in the hills of Ajloun in northern Jordan. It is a 12th-century Islamic castle, built by one of Saladin's generals to control the area's iron mines and to defend the region against Crusader attacks. For visitors interested in military history and architecture, it makes a rewarding stop.
What to see
The castle is a good example of Islamic military architecture of its period. Walking through its walls, towers and passages, you can get a sense of how the site was built to watch over the surrounding land and guard the routes through it. The position itself explains much of the design: the elevated location gives the castle a commanding presence over the countryside.
Visitors also come for the views. From the upper parts of the castle there are panoramic vistas across the Jordan Valley, and many people find the outlook as memorable as the stonework.
Planning your visit
- Location: Ajloun, in northern Jordan, which is a practical base for exploring the wider region.
- Contact: +962 2 642 0142, if you want to check arrangements before you travel.
- Also known as: Ajlun Castle, or Qal'at ar-Rabad, so you may see either name on signs and maps.
Ajloun Castle suits a relaxed half-day, with time to climb around the site and enjoy the views. Pairing it with other sights in the Ajloun area lets you combine history with the landscape of northern Jordan.