Showbak Castle
Showbak is an isolated Crusader castle, located around an hour north of Petra. Whilst it is more dilapidated than other castles such as Kerak, the setting is very dramatic; perched on a hillside and offering extensive views of the surrounding area.
Area
Petra
Type
History
Grade
Standard
Who
Adults
Difficulty
Moderate
Duration
1-2 Hours
The castle was built in 1115, but after defending a number of sieges, the last of which lasted 18 months, Showbak was conquered by Saladin's army in 1189.
The castle was later occupied by the Mamluks during the 14th Century, creating an interesting change in architecture as they built over or adapted the original Crusader structures.
Recommended Hotels Nearby
A selection of luxury hotel options in the area, handpicked and recommended by our travel specialists.
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View AccommodationDana Guesthouse
Dana Guesthouse is a simple but charming property, perched on the edge of a cliff overlooking the stunning Dana Nature Reserve in Jordan. The hotel is locally run and provides a convenient base for the night before starting treks into the nature reserve.
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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 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 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 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 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.
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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 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 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.
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 ExperienceTour of Petra with a Local Guide
A two-hour tour of Petra with a private local guide which will include a walk through the Siq before moving to the Treasury (El Khazneh), the intricately carved Royal Tombs, Street of the Facades and finishing at Qasr al Bint.
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View ExperienceBackdoor Walk from Little Petra
Trek via the winding back roads with panoramic desert & mountain vistas. This route allows you to beat the crowds, arriving at the famous Monastery whilst most visitors are still at the start of the site. Continue to explore the tombs, Treasury and Siq.
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View ExperiencePetra: Red Rose City
Spend the day exploring Petra, an ancient Nabatean capital which flourished in biblical times and dominated the Middle East caravan routes for four centuries before being assimilated into the Roman Empire in 106 A.D.
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View ExperiencePetra by Night
Petra by Night occurs on Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8.30pm. You enter the Siq, and the canyon which leads to the Treasury.
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View ExperiencePetra Kitchen
Short taster course into the delights of Jordanian cooking.
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View ExperienceLittle Petra
Significantly smaller than the main site of Petra, Little Petra is nevertheless worth a visit, offering a taster of incredible Nabataean architecture.
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