Aqaba Castle: The Region’s Historical Gem

The Aqaba Castle, also known as the Mamluk Castle of Aqaba, stands as a sentinel along the pilgrimage route to Mecca and Medina. Its current form dates mainly to the 16th century. In July 1917, the fortress witnessed a victory of the Arab Revolt when this heavily defended Turkish stronghold fell to an Arab camel charge. Lawrence of Arabia rode triumphantly from here to Cairo to report the good news to General Allenby. The port of Aqaba became a major supply base for the advancing Arab Revolt. Today, the Aqaba Fort is being partially reconstructed and invites visitors to explore its chambers, walk its walls, and immerse themselves in its storied past. The fort stands not only as a historical monument but also as a tangible link to the origins of the modern Middle East. A building nearby, once Sharif Hussein’s residence, now houses the Aqaba Archaeological Museum. #christmastrip