Shobak Castle A Historic Site in Jordan

Shobak Castle, also called Montreal or Mons Regalis, is an old castle in Ma’an, Jordan. It was built by the Crusaders in the 12th century during the Crusades.

The castle was built in 1115 AD by King Baldwin I of Jerusalem. It was in an important place to protect the eastern side of the Crusader Kingdom. The castle also controlled trade routes between Syria and Egypt.

Shobak Castle is on top of a hill, with amazing views of the desert. Its design mixes European military style with local building ideas, making it very special.

The castle has thick walls with many towers and defenses. Inside, there are ruins of many buildings, like the central keep, living areas, storage rooms, a small church, and a water tank. The castle’s design shows how it was used for both war and daily life.

The castle changed owners many times. The Crusaders held it until 1189, when Saladin (the Ayyubid leader) attacked and captured it. Later, in 1260 AD, the Mamluks took control.

Over time, the castle lost its importance and became a ruin. Today, it is a famous tourist site. Visitors can walk around the ruins, climb the towers, and imagine how life was in the past.