Kerak Castle is a crusader fortress located in the town of Al-Karak in Jordan. It was built during the 12th century by the Crusaders, and it served as a strategic stronghold for them in the region. The castle is a mix of Crusader, Islamic, and Byzantine architectural styles, reflecting the different groups that have controlled it over the centuries.
Kerak Castle was built on a steep hill overlooking the Dead Sea, which made it difficult to attack. It has thick walls, a series of towers, and a deep moat that surrounds it. The castle was originally designed to house soldiers and provide a place for them to rest and recover. However, it was also used as a prison, and some of the most famous prisoners held there were members of the Hashshashin, a Muslim sect known for their assassinations.
The castle has been the site of numerous battles over the centuries, with various groups vying for control of it. In the 1180s, it was captured by Saladin, the Muslim leader who famously fought against the Crusaders. However, it was recaptured by the Crusaders a few years later. The castle was also besieged by the Mamluks in the 13th century, and it eventually fell into their hands.
Today, Kerak Castle is a popular tourist attraction in Jordan. Visitors can explore the castle's various rooms, including the guard room, the kitchen, and the chapel. They can also climb up to the castle's towers to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The castle has been restored over the years, and many of its original features, such as its cisterns and secret passages, have been preserved.