Qasr al-Hallabat

Approximately 30km east into the desert from Zarqa, Qasr al-Hallabat enters into view. Angle off at the right turn onto the paved road and turn left up the track to the gate. The Bedouin gatekeeper’s tent sits to the left of the crumbling castle; you’re free to roam around whatever is left of the castle. Keep in mind that any gatekeeper who provides you with information will expect a dinar tip in return.

Back on the main highway, note the difference between the sand and limestone desert to the south and the grey volcanic desert to the north. Just off the road to the south is the Hammam Sarah, the ruined bathhouse modeled after Amra (below). The thousands of stones thrown into the well over the last 1000 years haven’t noticeably affected its depth.