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Amra Castle

Qasr Amra, or Amra Castle, is one of Jordan’s most famous desert castles and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in the early 8th century AD during the reign of the Umayyad Caliph Walid I, Qasr Amra served as a royal retreat rather than a fortress. Renowned for its well-preserved frescoes depicting scenes of hunting, leisure, and even celestial maps, this small but fascinating structure offers a unique glimpse into the life and culture of the Umayyad era. Its artistic and architectural significance makes it a must-visit for history and art lovers.

Amra Castle Tours & Excursions

The Basics

Qasr Amra is open daily from 8 AM to 6 PM in summer and 8 AM to 4 PM in winter. Entry costs 3 JOD for adults and is free for children under 12. The main attraction of Qasr Amra is its bathhouse, which features stunning frescoes covering the walls and ceilings. The frescoes depict a variety of scenes, including royalty, animals, mythological figures, and an impressive zodiac ceiling in the caldarium (hot room). Informative plaques are available on-site, but hiring a guide will enhance your visit by explaining the significance of the artwork and architecture.

Things to Know Before You Go

The castle is small and can be explored in about 30 to 45 minutes, but don’t rush—take your time to admire the intricate frescoes. Wear comfortable clothing and bring water, as the surrounding desert can get hot, especially in summer. Photography is allowed, but flash should be avoided to protect the delicate frescoes. Qasr Amra is part of the Desert Castles Loop, so it’s ideal to combine your visit with nearby sites like Qasr Kharana and Qasr al-Azraq.

How to Get There

Qasr Amra is located about 85 km east of Amman, and the drive takes around 1.5 hours via Route 40. The best way to reach the castle is by car or as part of a guided desert castles tour from Amman. Parking is available on-site. Public transportation options are limited, so private transportation or an organized tour is recommended for convenience. Many day trips from Amman include Qasr Amra along with other nearby desert castles.

When to Get There

The best time to visit Qasr Amra is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild. Summer can be extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 40°C, while winter nights can be quite cold. Visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon is ideal for avoiding the heat and enjoying better lighting for photography.

Day Trips from Amman

A visit to Qasr Amra is often included in a desert castles tour from Amman. Popular stops on this tour include:

Qasr Kharana, a well-preserved desert palace with mysterious origins.

Azraq Castle (Qasr al-Azraq), a black basalt fortress once used by Lawrence of Arabia.

Qasr al-Hallabat, an Umayyad fort with intricate stone carvings and a nearby bath complex.

These sites provide a fascinating insight into the Umayyad era, showcasing the blend of early Islamic architecture, Roman influences, and desert culture.