Alex
Qasr al-Abd, situated in the village of Iraq al-Amir, approximately 17 kilometres west of Amman, stands as a remarkable example of Hellenistic architecture in Jordan. Constructed in the early 2nd century BCE, the palace is attributed to Hyrcanus of Jerusalem, a member of the influential Tobiad family and governor of Ammon. The name “Qasr al-Abd,” translating to “Castle of the Servant,” may reference Hyrcanus himself, who was considered a servant of the king. The palace was built using massive limestone blocks, some measuring up to 7 by 3 meters, making it one of the most monumental structures of its time in the region. Although the building was never completed, its grandeur is evident in the remaining two-story structure adorned with carved reliefs of lions, panthers, and eagles. Originally, the palace was surrounded by an artificial lake, giving the impression of a fortress floating on water—a design that led the historian Josephus to describe it as a strong fortress encircled by a moat .  
Inside Qasr al-Abd, visitors can explore the ground floor, which features a central corridor flanked by rooms on either side, and staircases that once led to the upper floor. The interior showcases the architectural ingenuity of the Hellenistic period, with intricately carved stone elements and strategic openings for light and ventilation. Notably, the palace includes two fountains carved in the shape of panthers, which were designed to spout water into the surrounding lake, enhancing the illusion of the palace as a floating structure . Adjacent to the palace, the Iraq al-Amir caves, carved into the nearby cliffs, bear inscriptions of the name “Tobiah” in Aramaic script, further linking the site to the Tobiad family. These caves, arranged in two tiers, were likely used for various purposes, including as dwellings and stables, and add to the historical significance of the area.
