Eastern Desert, 60 km east of Amman

8th Century AD

Residents – FREE
Non-residents – FREE

NO

North 31° 43′ 44″
East 36° 27′ 46″

4.3/5

Qasr Kharana

Located just 60 kilometres east of Amman along Highway 40, Qasr Kharana is a fascinating Desert Castle nestled within the arid Syrian-Jordanian desert. This square structure, spanning 35 metres on each side, showcases a blend of Roman and Sassanid architectural influences, offering a captivating glimpse into the region’s history.

Its layout is simple yet remarkable—a central courtyard surrounded by two levels of rooms designed as accommodation units or bayt. Unique features like squinches and half-domes, reminiscent of Iranian architecture from Ctesiphon and Sarvistan, highlight its historical connections. Though built on a smaller scale than other Syrian castles, its four corner towers and decorative semicircular buttresses set it apart.

Qasr Kharana

Despite its appearance, Qasr Kharana was not a military fortification but rather a Bedouin meeting spot. The intricate stucco work around the entrance and upper floor, along with simple yet striking motifs, adds to its charm. Fun fact—some of these patterns, such as the “fleur de lys”, echo designs found in prominent sites like the Dome of the Rock.

Today, visitors can explore Qasr Kharana under the care of the Jordanian Ministry of Antiquities. Entry costs only JD 3, and the site is open during daylight hours via a modern visitor centre overseen by the Ministry of Tourism. Don’t miss this remarkable step back in time during your Jordanian adventure!

A Historical Oasis in the Middle of the Desert

Qasr Kharana may be surrounded by miles of barren desert, but it was once part of a thriving oasis. It was strategically located along ancient.

trade routes, connecting Damascus to Arabia and serving as an important stop for caravans on their journey through the harsh desert terrain. This is evident from the remains of a water reservoir and cisterns found on the site. Visitors can also see evidence of agricultural activity with remnants of terraces and irrigation systems still visible today.

Additionally, historical records suggest that Qasr Kharana played a role in providing shelter for travellers during inclement weather or as a place of refuge during times of conflict. This dual purpose of serving as a meeting place and providing essential services to travellers showcases the importance and strategic location of Qasr Kharana in its heyday.

A Mysterious Structure with Many Theories

Despite being studied by archaeologists and historians for centuries, there is still much debate about the origins and purpose of Qasr Kharana. Some theories suggest it was built by the Umayyad Caliph Walid II as a hunting lodge, while others propose it was erected by Byzantine or Ghassanid rulers for military purposes. Another theory suggests that it was constructed as a caravanserai, providing lodging and protection for traders and their goods.

Regardless of its original purpose, there is a certain mystique surrounding Qasr Kharana that adds to its allure. The intricate designs and decorations carved into the limestone walls, along with its unique location in the middle of the desert, make it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and curious travellers alike.

Qasr Kharana

Qasr Kharana, an architectural marvel from the early Umayyad period, stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the caliph Walid I during his rise to regional prominence. The castle’s elegant design is a noteworthy example of early Islamic art and architecture, offering a glimpse into a fascinating period of history.

Though its exact purpose remains uncertain, Qasr Kharana was likely used for temporary activities due to its limited water supply. Historians speculate it may have served as a fortress, a gathering place for Bedouins, or possibly even for meetings with the Umayyad governor. However, its positioning away from major trade routes and lack of essential water sources make it an unlikely choice for a caravanserai.

Over the centuries, the castle fell into neglect and succumbed to damage from earthquakes. Rediscovered in 1901 by Alois Musil, Qasr Kharana underwent restoration in the late 1970s. Although these efforts revitalised the structure, modifications such as cement additions and the closure of an east wall door differed from the original materials. The restoration and historical significance of Qasr Kharana were later documented in depth by Stephen Urice in his 1987 work, Qasr Kharana in the Transjordan.

Today, the castle endures as a captivating relic, inviting visitors to explore its mysteries and appreciate the legacy of early Islamic design.

SHARE

Timeline of Qasr Kharana History

4th Century AD

Byzantine Period

A Byzantine house may have existed on the site, according to some findings.
4th Century AD
8th Century AD

Umayyad Period

The castle was built in the early Umayyad period by the Umayyad caliph Walid I whose dominance of the region was rising at the time. Qasr Kharana is an important example of early Islamic art and architecture.
8th Century AD
20th Century AD

Present Time

In later centuries the castle was abandoned and suffered damage from several earthquakes. In the late 1970s, it was restored.
20th Century AD

Nearby Attractions

Go back in time to the era of military campaigns and desert warfare as you explore Jordan’s imposing …
Some 20 km from Amman en route to Qasr Kharana and Qasr Amra, the large reservoir at Al-Muwaqqar lies just south of Hwy 40 and is still …
Although this rather large Umayyad settlement was once a grand city in the desert, today Mshash sadly lies in …

Desert Castles

Qasr Kharana 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