Kerak Castle: visit, history, opening hours and price (Jordan)
Kerak Castle (Al-Karak) is Jordan's great Crusader fortress, built from 1142 on a spur overlooking the modern town and the mountains of Moab. Expect about 2 JD for entry (free with the Jordan Pass), 1.5 to 2.5 hours for the visit, and about 1 hour 45 by road from Amman. It is the most complete stop on the Kings Highway, with vaulted halls you can explore without a guide.
Highlights
The walls and the Ottoman gate
The dark stone walls, several metres high, show the difference between the Crusader base and the Mamluk additions; you enter by the old gate, where the guides wait.
The view from the road
At sunset the castle stands out against the valley; several viewpoints line the access road.
The vaulted galleries
Corridors and large stone halls on several levels (the site has seven): bring a torch or use your phone light.
The small museum
Housed in the castle, it shows objects from Kerak's history, from antiquity to the Islamic period.
Practical info
Tips
- Entry: about 2 JD for non-Jordanians according to travel guides; the castle is included in the Jordan Pass. A local guide can be hired at the gate for about 10 JD per group; it is not essential, the signs are decent. The site is large and uneven: wear closed shoes, and bring water in summer. History in two lines: founded by the Crusaders in the mid-12th century and famous for Raynald of Châtillon, the castle fell to Saladin in 1188 after a long siege, then was strengthened by the Mamluks. Kerak is best visited with Shobak, Dana and Petra on the Kings Highway. A day return from Amman is possible, often combined with the Dead Sea.
How to get there
From Amman, about 120 km, roughly 1 hour 45 to 2 hours by the Desert Highway, or longer by the Dead Sea road. With a car, see car rental; otherwise a private driver or a day tour. Public transport from Amman exists but is slow, with changes: confirm locally. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car for the day.
Opening hours
Our guides that feature it
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