Machaerus, Archaeological site in Madaba Governorate, Jordan

Machaerus is an ancient fortress built on a hilltop with views over the Dead Sea in Madaba Governorate. The site includes towers, walls, and a palace complex with a courtyard where columns have been re-erected through modern restoration work.

King Alexander Jannaeus built the first fortress on this hill in 90 BCE. Herod the Great rebuilt it about 60 years later as his easternmost stronghold, adding a palace and bath complex.

The name Machaerus derives from the Greek word for sword, and Arabic tradition links it to the rounded shape of the hill, called Mukawir. The village of Mukawir stands on the ruins of the ancient site and holds Byzantine churches, notably the church of Malachius among the traditional houses. Since Pope John Paul II's visit in 2000, the site has been one of Jordan's five Christian pilgrimage sites.

The climb to the summit follows a steep path that can be demanding on hot days. Reconstructed columns in the courtyard and the thermal bath area help visitors understand the original layout of the palace.

According to the historian Flavius Josephus, John the Baptist was held prisoner here in 32 CE. The fortress served as his jail before he was executed on the orders of Herod Antipas.