Eastern Desert, 300 km northeast of Amman

3rd & 8th Century AD

Residents – FREE
Non-residents – FREE

YES

North 32° 36′ 27″
East 37° 57′ 45″

4.5/5

Qasr Burqu

Qasr Burqu, nestled deep in Jordan’s Eastern Desert, is an extraordinary yet secluded historical site that exudes a sense of an untouched past. Located by the serene waters of a desert lake, approximately 80 kilometres from the Iraqi border, this hidden gem is a must-visit for history enthusiasts and adventurers alike. Its isolation ensures that reaching the site requires determination—a four-wheel-drive vehicle and a knowledgeable local guide from either Muqat, where the sign to the palace is located, or Ruweished, just 10 kilometres further.

Qasr Burqu

A Desert Oasis with Unique Appeal

What sets Qasr Burqu apart is the striking juxtaposition of the tranquil lake against the rugged desert backdrop. This oasis owes its existence to an ingenious ancient dam built by the Romans in the 3rd century. Constructed to secure water for caravans travelling between Syria and Arabia, the dam created a vital resource in the otherwise harsh landscape. Today, the lake doesn’t just serve as an enduring reminder of Roman engineering but is also an important habitat for various bird species such as finches, storks, larks, eagles, and vultures.

The importance of the lake has driven efforts by The Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature (RSCN) to establish the area as a protected reserve. Such a designation would preserve its ecological significance while fostering eco-tourism in the region.

A Wildlife Haven

The surrounding arid environment, combined with limited access and human activity, has unintentionally created a sanctuary for both flora and fauna. The area is home to gazelles, desert hares, foxes, hyenas, and the elusive caracal. Spring brings life and colour to the desert when poppies and irises bloom among the wormwood, while birds congregate around the life-giving water.

Architectural Highlights

Qasr Burqu itself is a fascinating structure that offers a window into history.

The longest room, found on the northeast side of the palace, features intriguing inscriptions, hinting at the human endeavours of the past. Another highlight is a small apsidal room, possibly a reception hall or chapel, with its pointed arch and niches adding architectural flair.

One of the most captivating elements of the Qasr is the circular room on the southwest side. Its lintel is adorned with a cross, suggesting it may date back to an earlier phase of construction. Within this room are engaged pilasters on two sides, which add a touch of grandeur.

The tower in the courtyard is another prominent feature. Likely the earliest structure within the complex, the tower’s finely constructed walls stand an impressive 8 metres high, hinting at its once-formidable stature. This tower likely served as an isolated watchtower, with a now-blocked small door on the southwest side providing added security. Adventurous visitors can climb up the sides to explore its three ground-floor rooms, where remnants of arches still survive.

Experience Qasr Burqu at Its Best

Spring is undoubtedly the ideal time to visit Qasr Burqu. During this season, the lake’s waters lap against the palace walls, creating a picturesque scene. The site transforms into a vibrant hub of life, with blooming flowers and the cheerful presence of birds drawn by the water.

A Hidden Wonder Worth Discovering

Alongside Qasr Tuba, Qasr Burqu stands out as one of the most captivating ancient ruins to explore in Jordan. Its blend of isolation, natural beauty, and historical intrigue makes it a standout destination for those seeking to uncover lesser-known treasures. This rare oasis in the desert promises an awe-inspiring experience and deserves a place on any traveller’s itinerary.

Accessible yet remote, Qasr Burqu is a testament to Jordan’s rich history and natural wonder, making it an unmissable stop for those with a thirst for exploration.

Qasr Burqu

Thought to have been constructed in the 3rd century, this historic tower stands as a testament to centuries of significance and evolution. The evidence for its ancient origins lies in a 3rd-century Greek inscription, now housed in a museum in Chicago. Adding layers to its fascinating narrative, Arabic inscriptions from the years 700, 1380, and 1409 have been uncovered within the site, suggesting its continuous importance through various eras.

One of the most notable features is found on the tower’s northeast side. The longest room bears a lintel inscription dated to 700 CE, reading, “Oh God! Bismillah.” It further notes that Amir Al-Walid, later Caliph Walid I, was responsible for constructing the rooms—a testament to the enduring Umayyad presence in the region. Above this, a later inscription from 1409 CE records a moment when Haroun interpreted the older Kufic inscription below.

Together, these inscriptions weave a rich tapestry of history, highlighting the tower’s significance across civilisations and eras. From its Roman-era roots to its Umayyad enhancements, this structure serves as a vivid relic of cross-cultural heritage and historical continuity.

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Timeline of Qasr Burqu History

3rd Century AD

Roman Period

A Greek inscription found here, now in a Chicago museum, is dated to the 3rd century, suggesting that the tower may have been built in the 3rd century by the Romans.
3rd Century AD
8th Century AD

Umayyad Period

Arabic inscriptions dating to 700, 1380 and 1409 have been found. On this evidence, it is thought that the larger enclosure was added in the Umayyad era around the tower.
8th Century AD
21st Century AD

Present Time

Today Qasr Burqu is not on the list of most tourists visiting Jordan due to its isolated location and inaccessibility. A 4×4 vehicle and a local guide are necessary.
21st Century AD

Nearby Attractions

The last village before the border with Iraq and a stopping point on the way to the remote site of Qasr Burqu …

Desert Castles

Qasr Burqu Reviews

PHOTO Gallery

Map Legend

8000 – 4000 BC

3500 – 1200 BC

1200 – 539 BC

332 – 168 BC

168 BC – 106 AD

106 – 324 AD

324 – 636 AD

661 – 750 AD

1099 – 1263 AD

1250 – 1918 AD

8000 - 4000 BC
Alex Travel
3500 - 1200 BC
1200 - 539 BC
Alex Travel
332 - 168 BC
Alex Travel
168 BC - 106 AD
106 - 324 AD
324 - 636 AD
Alex Travel
661 - 750 AD
Alex Travel
1099 - 1263 AD
1250 - 1918 AD

Neolithic Period

Bronze Age

Iron Age

Hellenistic Period

Nabatean Period

Roman Period

Byzantine Period

Umayyad Period

Crusades / Ayyubid Period

Mumluk / Ottoman Period