Azraq Castle (Qasr al-Azraq)

Overview

Azraq Castle, also known as Qasr al-Azraq, is a historic fort located in the heart of the Azraq Oasis in Jordan. The castle dates back to the Ottoman period and has served various purposes, including as a military base and a prison.

Azraq Castle is significant for its role in Jordan's history, particularly during the Great Arab Revolt and the British Mandate period. It is also an important example of Ottoman architecture in the region.

Castle Military History

Location

Address

Azraq

Neighborhood: Downtown Azraq

Coordinates

31.866700, 36.800000

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 3:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Admission

Adults

10 JOD

Children

5 JOD (ages 6-12)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May, October-November

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

Half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Mild and pleasant

• Spring blooms
• Birdwatching

summer

Hot and dry

• Extended opening hours

autumn

Cool and pleasant

• Fall foliage
• Harvest season

winter

Cool and rainy

• Holiday decorations
• Winter bird migrations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring a valid ID
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

Valid ID Water bottle Comfortable shoes Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)

seasonal

Umbrella (for rain) Cooler bag (for picnics)

not allowed

Large bags or backpacks Drones Weapons or dangerous items

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate (some walking involved)

• Stay hydrated
• Protect yourself from the sun

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash (JOD), Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)

Currency

Jordanian Dinar (JOD)

Typical Costs

entry 10 JOD

parking 2 JOD

food 5-15 JOD

souvenirs 5-30 JOD

Dress Code

Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered), Comfortable walking shoes, Closed-toe shoes recommended, Revealing clothing, Beachwear

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week in advance
• Official website or authorized vendors
• 48 hours in advance for full refund
• Available for purchase online

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Azraq Castle Official App

Size: 45 MB

Features: Interactive map, Audio guide, Ticket booking, Event calendar

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Courtyard

Charging Stations: Not specified

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Amman Civil Airport (OMAM)

Distance: 80 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

Taxi

40-50 JOD 1 hour 15 minutes

Private car

50-70 JOD 1 hour 15 minutes

From City Center

Distance: 100 km

Bus

5-10 JOD 1 hour 45 minutes

Private car

60-80 JOD 1 hour 30 minutes

Taxi

50-60 JOD 1 hour 30 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Azraq Castle is a symbol of Jordan's rich history and cultural heritage.

Historical Significance: The castle played a crucial role during the Great Arab Revolt and the British Mandate period.

Insider Tips

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures
The best food stalls can be found near the main entrance
Local guides offer valuable insights into the castle's history

Local Recommendations

• Try local Bedouin tea at the nearby cafes
• Visit the Azraq Wetland Reserve for a unique experience
• Ask for a local guide to learn more about the castle's history

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Marhaba

thank_you Shukran

where_is Wayn

how_much Kam

beautiful Hilweh

ticket Tikket

Guide Languages: Arabic, English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main courtyard

Best Time: Early morning or late afternoon

Tips: Capture the castle walls and surrounding oasis

Result: Stunning landscape shots

#AzraqCastle #Jordan #HistoricalSite #TravelJordan

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Courtyard, Exterior of the castle

prohibited areas Interior of the castle (no photography allowed), Restricted military areas

flash photography Not allowed

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed with permission

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Azraq Wetland Reserve

Distance: 2 km

Walking: 25 minutes

Type: Nature Reserve

Shaumari Wildlife Reserve

Distance: 50 km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Wildlife Reserve

Qasr Hallabat

Distance: 30 km