Shobak
A remote Crusader stronghold above the desert
Shobak Castle, built in 1115 by the Crusader king Baldwin I, stands in dramatic isolation on a rocky hilltop overlooking a wide desert valley. It sees far fewer visitors than Kerak, giving travelers a quieter, more atmospheric castle experience.
Why Visit
For travelers who enjoy exploring ruins with fewer crowds, Shobak is a rewarding stop between Kerak and Petra, with carved Quranic and Crusader inscriptions, a secret underground staircase, and sweeping desert views.
Highlights
- The castle's outer walls and towers
- A secret 375-step underground staircase cut into the hillside
- Carved inscriptions from both Crusader and Ayyubid periods
- Panoramic desert views from the hilltop
Suggested Experiences
- Suggested duration
- About 45 minutes to one hour.
