Shouback

Description

Perched in a wild, remote landscape, Shobak Castle wins over even the most castle-weary visitor, despite being less complete than its sister fortification at Karak. It's especially imposing when seen from a distance, as it sits on a dramatic hill (formerly called Mons Realis, or the Royal Mountain), imposing its might on the surrounding countryside. 

Shobak was built by the Crusader king Baldwin I in 1115. Its defenders withstood numerous attacks from the armies of Saladin (Salah ad Din) before succumbing in 1189 (a year after Karak), after an 18-month siege. It was later occupied in the 14th century by the Mamluks, who built over many of the Crusader buildings. 

A set of stairs cut into the rock tunnels down 375 steps into an amazing secret passageway that leads to a subterranean spring, finally surfacing via a ladder outside the castle. Also explore the wells, baptistery, and reconstructed church. Beneath the church are catacombs, which contain Islamic tablets, Christian carvings, large spherical rocks used in catapults and what is said to be Saladin’s very simple throne

Today, it is wonderful, romantic destination. The tranquility of the site, and its magnificent views, allow for peaceful reflection.