Overview:

Aqaba Castle is located in the ancient city of Aqaba in the south of Jordan, close to the Red Sea. It is a fortified castle built by the Mamluks of the Ayyubid dynasty in the late 13th and early 14th centuries, making it one of the oldest fortresses still standing in the region. The fortification served both military and administrative purposes, safeguarding the city’s townspeople and neighbouring Bedouins from attacks. It is known to have four large towers, each with four battlements and a gatehouse. Inside the grounds of the castle, there is a mosque, a museum, a palace and a well. Aqaba Castle has become a major tourist attraction in Jordan, with many visitors flocking to the castle to explore its unique history and take photographs. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Jordan
Prominent Features:

1. Large stone walls, towers, and a gate built to protect the city and harbor from sea attacks. 2. Ancient Great walls with arrow slits that protected the port from attackers. 3. Ottoman-style architecture, built by the Mamluks in the late 15th century. 4. Unique blend of Islamic, Ottoman, and European influences. 5. Courtyards, ramparts, and a governors' palace inside the castle walls. 6. Stone ramparts used to protect the entrance as well as the city. 7. Numerous windows, and balconies along the walls of the castle. 8. Beautiful Islamic artwork in the walls and ceilings of the castle. 9. Historic inner-courtyard garden with a fountain and a pond. 10. Historical statues and artifacts from various civilizations found in the castle. This national monument of Jordan portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Aqaba Castle (or Citadel) is located in the city of Aqaba, Jordan, on the edge of the Red Sea. The castle dates back to the 14th century when the Mamluk sultan Qansuh al-Ghauri ordered its construction in 1516. It was built as an early form of fortification used by the Mamluks to protect the city and harbour from invaders. The large round tower of Aqaba Castle is particularly notable and can be seen in the harbour today. The castle served as a key defensive site, protecting the city from the Ottoman Empire and later the British during World War I. During the British occupation of Aqaba, the castle was used as a British military base. In 1928, it was eventually transformed into a prison. It was used as a prison up until the 1970s, when it was made into a tourist attraction. The Aqaba Castle has been frequently renovated and repaired throughout its rich history. In 1991, a large-scale restoration was undertaken to restore the castle to its former glory. This included the restoration of the keep, which had been badly damaged in World War I, as well as the restoration of the tall round towers and battlements. Today the Aqaba Castle is a popular tourist destination in Jordan, offering visitors a glimpse into the past. The castle is open year round for visitors to explore its various chambers and enjoy the spectacular views of Aqaba and the Red Sea. You must visit one of these historical places in Jordan on your Jordan tour

Interesting facts:

1. Aqaba Castle is an ancient castle located in Aqaba, Jordan. 2. Aqaba Castle was built by Mamluk Sultan Qansuh al-Ghawri in the early 16th century. 3. The castle was fortified by the Ottoman sultan Selim I in 1516 and was later rebuilt by the Ottomans in the 18th century. 4. During World War I, Aqaba Castle served as the headquarters of Sharif Hussein bin Ali of Mecca, who was leading a revolt against the Ottoman Empire. 5. In 1967, Aqaba Castle was used as a position from which Jordanian forces were able to fire on Israeli troops in the South during the Six-Day War. 6. Aqaba Castle was declared a national monument in 2003. 7. Today, the castle houses a museum which displays artifacts from the early history of Aqaba, including pottery, jewelry, coins, and mementos. Visit one of the famous monuments of Jordan with your friends and family.