Kerak Castle
Built in 1161 by the Crusaders, Kerak is a perfect example of mediaeval castle design. The castle is a dark maze of stone-vaulted halls and passageways. Its most famous occupant was Reynald de Chatillon, who had a reputation for treachery and brutality.
Area
Dead Sea - Jordan Side
Type
Art & Architecture
History
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
1-2 Hours
Reynald de Chatillon was not your perfect example of a Chivalric Knight. He broke all treaties, regularly robbed merchant caravans and pilgrims, raided ports, and even went so far as to attack Hejaz, the homeland of Islam, and threaten Mecca. Unsurprisingly, Saladin, the ruler of Syria and Egypt, was swift to respond. He burned the town of Kerak to the ground and almost conquered the castle itself.
After Reynald robbed a large caravan in 1177, Saladin attacked the Crusader Kingdom again and finally defeated them at the Battle of Hattin. While most of the captives were spared, Saladin executed Reynald himself. The defenders of Kerak Castle were able to hold out under siege for eight months before surrendering and being allowed to walk free.
Tours Featuring This Experience
Be inspired by the itineraries below which include this experience and let our travel specialists craft a bespoke luxury holiday for you.
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View TourImagine Jordan
Dive into the amazing history and culture of this incredible Kingdom. Enjoy mouth watering cuisine and enjoy Jordanian hospitality throughout this trip. From Amman visit iconic sights such as the Roman ruins at Jerash, and then travelling south to the Red Rose city of Petra and the unique landscape of Wadi Rum before ending with a few days relaxation at the Dead Sea.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationAl Qasr Metropole
Al Qasr Metropole is a small, stylish hotel located in Amman's business district of Shmeisani with extensive views over the city from the upper floors. It has a warm atmosphere as it boasts some of the most popular restaurants in the city.
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View AccommodationPetra Marriott
The Petra Marriott is located above Wadi Mousa; the town on the edge of the famous Petra site. Like many hotels in Jordan, the Petra Marriott is a little dated, however it does provide a perfectly comfortable base for adventures into the Rose-Red City.
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View AccommodationThe Four Seasons Hotel Amman
The Four Seasons Amman occupies a fantastic location within Jordan's capital. This luxurious city hotel combines smart rooms, excellent service, and a great range of facilities, including a choice of restaurants and a pool, to ensure a comfortable stay.
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View AccommodationMovenpick Resort Petra
The Movenpick is ideally located opposite the entrance to the Petra site. The hotel is a mixture of Arabic and international design. There are a number of facilities including a pool and choice of restaurants, providing a comfortable base for exploring.
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View AccommodationGrand Hyatt Amman
The Grand Hyatt Amman is set in the heart of Jordan's capital city and is a comfortable hotel from which guests can base themselves for local sightseeing, both in Amman and further afield in Jerash. The Grand Hyatt has great facilities and service.
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View AccommodationHayat Zaman
Hayat Zaman (formerly Taybet Zaman) is a charming local hotel situated on a hillside in the village of Taybeh, close to the famous rose-red city of Petra. Whilst it is fairly simple, the Hayat Zaman provides a comfortable base and plenty of character.
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View AccommodationFairmont Amman
The Fairmont Amman is the most glamorous hotel in Jordan's capital. The property features a range of fantastic facilities, as well as a diverse choice of restaurants. Although fairly corporate, this a great option for those seeking a luxury city hotel.
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View AccommodationMovenpick Resort and Spa Dead Sea
The Movenpick Dead Sea is located on the northern banks of the Dead Sea and is designed to replicate an Arabic Village, set amid lush green gardens. The resort has an award-winning spa, man-made beach and plenty of dining options.
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View AccommodationKempinski Hotel Ishtar Dead Sea
The Kempinski Ishtar Dead Sea is a luxurious and exclusive hotel overlooking the northern shores of the Dead Sea. It has its own private man-made beach on the Dead Sea, a number of swimming pools as well as the largest spa in the Middle East.
More Experiences in This Area
Discover more things to do in the area and chat to our specialists about crafting these experiences into your tailor-made holiday.
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View ExperienceMt Nebo
According to the Bible, in the book of Deuteronomy, Mount Nebo is where the prophet Moses was shown the Promised Land for the Hebrew people. Today, the site contains a church and impressive mosaic collection.
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View ExperienceBethany Beyond the Jordan
Visit the site where it is believed John the Baptist performed baptisms in the river Jordan. The site is referenced a number of times in the Bible, most notably as the baptism place of Jesus Christ. A handful of churches have been built in the area.
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View ExperienceMadaba & Mt. Nebo
Be marveled by the impressive mosaics of St. George Church in Madaba, followed by an excursion to Mount Nebo where Moses once viewed the Holy Land from.
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View ExperienceMadaba
Known as the City of Mosaics, Madaba is most famous for the Church of St George which contains a superb mosaic map of the Holy Land dating from 560AD. There is an interesting visitors' centre which explains the map in more detail.
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