Ajloun Castle

A short journey west from Jarash, through pine forest and olive groves, brings you to the castle of Ajloun, which was built in 1184 by a nephew of Saladin, who defeated the Crusaders in 1187. A fine example of Islamic architecture, the fortress dominated a wide stretch of the north Jordan Valley and passages to it. From its hill - top position, the castle protected the communications routes between south Jordan and Syria.