Shoubak

Shoubak (also spelt Shawbak) is a small town in the Ma'an Governorate of southern Jordan, best known for its imposing Crusader castle, Montreal (Qal'at ash-Shawbak). The town sits along the King's Highway at an elevation of approximately 1,200 m, commanding a strategic position overlooking the Araba Valley and routes to the Gulf of Aqaba.

The castle was built in 1115 by Baldwin I of Jerusalem during the Crusades and was one of the most important Crusader fortifications in the region. It was besieged and captured by Saladin's forces in 1189. The castle's ruins, perched on a conical hill, offer panoramic views of the surrounding desert landscape.

Shoubak has a semi-arid climate with cool winters at this elevation and warm summers. The town serves as a stopover for travellers on the King's Highway between Dana/Wadi Musa and the Ma'an region, and as a base for exploring the surrounding area.

By Plane

The nearest airports are King Hussein International Airport (AQJ) in Aqaba (approximately 140 km south) and Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) near Amman (approximately 200 km north).

By Car / Road

Shoubak is located on the King's Highway, approximately 40 km north of Wadi Musa (Petra) and 60 km south of Tafila. From Amman, take the King's Highway south (approximately 3.5–4 hours) or the Desert Highway to Ma'an and then west to Shoubak. Minibuses connect Shoubak to Ma'an and Wadi Musa.

The town is small and walkable. The castle sits on a hill above the town and requires a short uphill walk or drive.

• Montreal Castle (Qal'at ash-Shawbak) — The main attraction, a well-preserved Crusader castle perched on a conical hilltop above the town. The castle features extensive walls, towers, a church, and cisterns carved into the bedrock. Panoramic views of the surrounding desert. Entry included with Jordan Pass.

• Church ruins within the castle — Two churches, one Romanesque and one Gothic, are found within the castle walls, reflecting its Crusader origins.

• Inscriptions — Look for Arabic inscriptions from the Ayyubid and Mamluk periods carved into the castle walls after its capture from the Crusaders.

• Explore the castle — Allow 1–2 hours to wander the extensive ruins and enjoy the views.

• King's Highway drive — Shoubak is along one of the Middle East's most scenic roads, connecting Amman to Petra via ancient sites.

Small local restaurants in town serve standard Jordanian fare including falafel, grilled meats, and rice dishes. The Rest House near the castle entrance may offer meals and refreshments.

Water and soft drinks are available from local shops. Carry plenty of water when visiting the castle, especially in summer. Coffee and tea are available at local cafes.

Accommodation in Shoubak is very limited. Most travellers pass through en route between Dana, Tafila, and Petra. Wadi Musa (40 km south) has extensive accommodation options from 15 JD.

Basic provisions including groceries and household goods are available from small local shops in town. There is no dedicated tourist shopping.

• Wadi Musa (Petra) — The gateway to Petra, approximately 40 km south.
• Dana Nature Reserve — Spectacular hiking in the Great Rift, north on the King's Highway.
• Tafila — A town on the way to Dana Reserve, further north on the King's Highway.
• Ma'an — Regional capital, approximately 40 km east.
• Wadi Rum — Desert landscape, approximately 130 km south via Ma'an.