My Photos: Jordan -- Shobak Crusader Castle

Shobak Castle is another fortress built by Crusaders.  This one in 1115AD, by Baldwin of Jerusalem, atop the tallest hill in the region.  It was originally called Montreal. When Reynald de Chatillon took control of the castle in 1142, he regularly attacked the caravans of pilgrims passing through the valley below.  He also built ships, with the plan of transporting them to the Red Sea, then sailing them south to attack Mecca. Salah al-Din captured Jerusalem in 1187AD, and laid siege to Montreal, which finally surrendered in 1189AD.  Most of what remains of the castle today was Mameluk reconstruction from the 14th century. Catapult ammo All photos are copyright protected property of  Brenda Pokorny unless otherwise noted. If you would like permission for use, please contact me.