Kerak City Map

Kerak is a city of Jordan famous for the glorious Crusader fortress. Kerak is the capital of Karak Governorate. Kerak has developed around the beautiful castle located on the high hill top offering a magnificent view of the Dead Sea. It is built on a plateau shaped like triangle. The castle is situated on the narrow southern tip of the plateau. Kerak was once a part of the Jerusalem Kingdom.

Location of Kerak
Kerak is located on the King's Highway to the south of Amman. The town is situated on top of a hill nearly 1000 meters above the sea level and is surrounded by a valley. Apart from the castle there are several restored Ottoman buildings from the 19th century located within the city.

History of Kerak
According to the archeologists Kerak was inhabited since the Iron Age and was referred in the Bible as "Qer Harreseth". It was initially ruled by the Assyrians. In 105 the Romans conquered it from them and it went under the power of Nabateans. During the Byzantine ruling Kerak was a bishopric and remained predominantly Christian even under Arab rule.

Tourist Attraction of Kerak
Located 124km south of Amman, The Fortress was built in 1142 by the lord of Montreal "Payen le Bouteiller". The remains of this magnificent fortress are the focus of tourist attractions in Jordan. A deep dry moat separates the citadel and its fortress from the town. Stone vaulted rooms, heavy arches and doorways are example of typical Crusader architecture.

Kerak is very famous for its cuisine. The natives consider it as the capital of "Mansaf", which is the national dish of Jordan.

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