Karak Crusader Castle

Time to crash the castle! The Karak castle that is. Built in haste during times of conflict in the crusader period (1142-1188AD) and then expanded during more peaceful Mamluk times (~1500AD), the castle has a consistent design, but the quality of the finishing varies. The Crusader architecture is large, roughly cut dark hard sandstone whereas the Mamluk used lighter, soft sandstone cut into precise rectangles. 

The moat and recreation of drawbridge. 

Fierce guard kitty. Any castle’s best defence.

The castle housed up to 35,000 people and expanded across the whole mountain top plateau. We visited the potions within the inner wall as the town of Karak occupies between the inner and outer walls.

The structure was at least five stories tall with kitchens, dining halls and barracks on each level. Skylights were cut in the ceilings to allow daylight to shine through. And the portholes for firing arrows allowed light to filter in through the outer walls. 

The light was less abundant in the prison cells. Just enough for a sad comedy sketch or overly dramatic monologue. 

Stone and marble were rare and highly desired commodities so they former Roman temples were sacked for building materials. Any slab that looked good for building would be repurpose including headstones like this soldier and his delightful pecs. 

Across from the crusader portion of the castle is the newer section. 

We weren’t the only ones taking group shots. 

Selfie from the new castle looking back at the old. 

Underground on the first level and above ground on the main level were stables. 

I found this writing carved into the rock which I assume is the name of a mighty warhorse. Probably named Freckles or Shnookums. 

And I found another member of the feared Kitty Attack Battalion.

Back on the bus and just a few hours more until we reach Petra.