Le Krak du Désert

citadel, Al-Karak, Jordan

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June 30, 2026

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Le Krak du Désert, also known as Al-Karak, is a heavily fortified Crusader citadel located in west-central Jordan. Built in 1132 on the site of an ancient Moabite fortress, it was a significant stronghold during the Crusades. The citadel fell to Muslim forces in 1188 after the Crusaders' defeat at the Battle of Hattin.1

The castle at Al-Karak is a prime example of medieval military architecture, with its main structure dating to the Crusader period and later additions by the Mamluks and Ottomans. The town itself has a long history, mentioned in the Bible as Qir-hareseth and known to ancient geographers. It was also settled by the Byzantines, who had a bishopric there.1

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Al-Karak
Le Krak du Désert, a heavily fortified Crusader citadel, was built on the site of the ancient fortress in 1132; it fell to the Muslims in 1188, the year after the Crusaders’ defeat at the Battle of Ḥaṭṭīn (in Galilee), in which they lost control…
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Le Krak du Désert, a heavily fortified Crusader citadel, was built on the site of the ancient fortress in 1132; it fell to the Muslims in 1188, the year after the Crusaders’ defeat at the Battle of Ḥaṭṭīn (in Galilee), in which they lost control…
Read More