Ajlun Castle, Islamic fortress in Ajloun, Jordan
Ajlun Castle is a medieval stone fortress perched on a hilltop at about 980 meters elevation overlooking three valleys. The structure features seven towers strategically positioned to command views of the surrounding landscape and the Jordan Valley beyond.
Built in 1184 by a nephew of Saladin, the castle was part of a defensive strategy against Crusader movements in the region. It served both military purposes and helped secure control over valuable resources like iron mines.
The fortress served as a vital checkpoint for controlling trade routes and iron mines in the region. Visitors can observe how the structure was integrated into the landscape to monitor the valleys and the Jordan Valley below.
The site is easily accessible from Ajloun town and located on an elevated hilltop with expansive views. Visitors should wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared for the terrain when exploring the towers and courtyards.
The fortress has a sophisticated water system with underground pipes that directed water to a large cistern for year-round storage. This engineering demonstrates how the occupants solved the challenge of maintaining water supply at this high elevation.
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