Desert Highway, 140 km South of Amman
16th Century AD

Residents – FREE
Non-residents – FREE

NO

North 30° 50′ 21″
East 35° 56′ 1″

4.0/5

Qal’at Al-Hasa

Qal’at Al-Hasa is a modest but historically significant Ottoman-era fort located in southern Jordan near the town of Al-Hasa, along the ancient route connecting Damascus to Mecca. Constructed in the early 16th century, it served as one of the Hajj forts—part of a chain of fortified caravanserais established to protect and supply pilgrims travelling across the harsh desert on their journey to Mecca.

Built using local basalt and limestone, the rectangular fort features thick defensive walls, small watchtowers, and inner courtyards that once hosted weary travellers, soldiers, and animals. Though partially in ruins today, the fort offers a glimpse into the Ottoman military presence and the vast logistical efforts behind the sacred pilgrimage routes. Its isolated setting, surrounded by wide desert plains, adds to its atmosphere of quiet historical resilience, making it a hidden treasure for heritage seekers and explorers.

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