Alex
Qasr Usaykhim is a remote Roman fort located in Jordan’s eastern basalt desert, perched atop a low volcanic hill. Dating to the late 3rd or early 4th century AD, this small fort was part of the Roman frontier defence network known as the limes. Built primarily from dark basalt stones native to the area, the fort is roughly square in shape, with thick perimeter walls and corner towers designed for surveillance and protection. Despite its isolated location, Qasr Usaykhim would have housed a small garrison tasked with monitoring the surrounding desert routes and maintaining regional security.
Today, the ruins of Qasr Usaykhim retain much of their original layout, allowing visitors to clearly see the fort’s structure and defensive features. The site offers a striking contrast between the human-made fortifications and the surrounding stark, open desert landscape. Archaeologists believe that after its Roman military use, the fort may have been reused by local communities during the Byzantine and early Islamic periods. Its well-preserved remains make it an intriguing stop for those interested in Roman military architecture and the history of Jordan’s eastern frontier.
