Qasr Kharana

Qasr al-Kharana is a magnificent desert castle built in the 8th century AD and located about 60 km from Amman. Quite close to the border of Saudi Arabia, this Umayyad building is set on barren land and is one of the most photogenic locations in Jordan. It houses about 60 rooms that surround a central courtyard with a rainwater basin.

It is a two-storey square-shaped structure, the entrance to which lies on the southern side. The area is fenced off, and there is a visitor’s centre on the side of the entrance. Some of the rooms feature pilasters, blind niches, medallions, Arabic graffiti and stones with Greek inscriptions, indicating that this building was perhaps built on the site of a Roman or Byzantine residence. Some corridors on the second floor that overlook the courtyard don’t have guardrails, so be careful while walking. Close to the castle is a Bedouin tent where one can find some souvenirs and get a beverage. Restroom facilities are available too. There is no public transportation around, so the only way to get here is by car. There is a dirt parking to the south of the entrance linked to the highway by an unpaved driveway and is large enough for cars and buses.