A short journey west of Jerash, through pine forest and forest groves, brings you to the town of Ajloun. Here is Ajloun Castle (also known as "Qal'at"Ar-Rabad), which was built 1184 by Izz ad-Din Osama bin Munqidh, a nephew of Saladin, who defeated the crusaders in 1189.

 A fine example of Islamic architecture, the fortress dominated a wide stretch of northern Jordan Valley and passages to it. From its hilltop position, Ajloun Castle protected the communication routes between south Jordan and Syria, and was one of a chain of forts, which lit beacons at night to pass signals from the Euphrates as far as Cairo.

Today, Ajloun Castle is a splendid sight and a fascinating warren of towers, chambers, galleries and staircases to explore, while its hilltop position offers a stupendous view of the Jordan Valley.  

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