Burj el Maleh

Burj el Maleh is an archaeological site in the Jordan Valley consisting of stone ruins forming a rectangular fortified structure. The remaining walls and foundations reveal the layout of what was once a defensive installation in this strategic location.

The fortress dates to the Mamluk era, when military structures were built to control and protect trade routes passing through the Jordan Valley. It functioned as part of a broader defensive network that served the empire's strategic interests in this region.

The name refers to its defensive purpose, and visitors can observe how the stone walls were built to create fortified spaces for protection. The layout of the remaining structures shows how the site was organized for those who inhabited or garrisoned it.

The site is accessible via walking paths, though visitors should be prepared for uneven ground and exposed ruins. Archaeological work or detailed study may require advance permission from local authorities.

The builders relied entirely on stone sourced from the immediate surroundings, demonstrating how construction methods adapted to the local landscape. This practice of using nearby materials was common for fortifications in remote areas.

Elevation above the sea: 204 m

Length: 95 m

Width: 50 m

Made from material: stone

GPS coordinates: 32.32858,35.45591

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:03