This series of desert getaways was created by Umayyad lords in the eighth century. It includes incredible palaces, bath-houses, and hunting lodges. It is easily reachable from Amman by a roundtrip of around 260 Km (162 miles).

These castles (Arabic: plural – Qusur, singular – Qasr) served for many uses: governmental, residential, agricultural, and economic. They made the Umayyad family’s caliphs the most famous after Damascus became their capital in 661 AD.

These wonders produced the most stunning early art and architecture; inspired by ancient Islamic, Greco-Roman, Byzantine, and Persian styles.

Hammam As-Sarah

This Qasr is a mixture of a bath (Arabic: Hammam), and a house.

It covers an audience hall and a walled garden.

It’s another outstanding example of the Umayyad political representation strategy.

Location #A in map above.

Qasr Al-Hallabat

This grand unit is located on the former Roman Empire desert border, Limes Arabicus.

Qasr Al-Hallabat is unique with its own mosque, massive water reservoir, and agricultural yard.

During explorations, Greek inscriptions from the Byzantine Empire were found on 160 basalt blocks.

Location #B in map above.

Qasr Al-Azraq

Qasr Al-Azraq was used by the Umayyads, Ayyubis, and Ottomans.

During the Arab Revolt, T. E. Lawrence and Sharif Hussein Bin Ali were based at this black basalt Roman fort.

Location #C in map above.

Quseir ‘Amra

One of the most intriguing Umayyad castles.

It has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985.

It contains immense fresco paintings in both its audience hall and bath complex. The artworks describe bathing and hunting scenes, portraits, trades, animals, and a zodiac beneath the dome.

Location #D in map above.

Qasr Al-Kharanah

An imposing and well-preserved early VIII century castle. It was used for political meetings between Umayyad rulers and local tribal leaders.

Location #E in map above.
Qasr Al-Mushatta

Qasr Al-Mushatta

This Qasr is a world-renowned carved ornamentation on the Umayyad palace from the VIII century.

Its site contains ruins that were extensively restored in 2013.

Location #F in map above.