Ajloun Governorate

The green highlands

Ajloun lies in the northern highlands, at heights of up to about 1,200 metres. Some of the highest rainfall in Jordan falls here, and the hills are covered with evergreen oak, pine, wild pistachio and the strawberry tree, whose smooth red bark brightens the woodland. Deep valleys separate the hills and run west towards the Jordan Valley, which can be seen far below on clear days. Winters are cool, with rain and occasional snow, while summers are mild compared with most of the country.

Ajloun town and villages

The town of Ajloun is a market centre for the surrounding hills, with an old mosque at its heart whose minaret dates back to the Mamluk period. Around it are villages such as Anjara, Kufranjah, Orjan and Rasoun, each set among olive groves and orchards. Several villages have developed small community projects that offer homestays, guided walks, cooking sessions and local products to visitors. A cable car links the town with the hills near the castle, giving wide views over the valleys.

Castle and holy sites

Ajloun Castle, also called Qal'at ar-Rabad, was built in the 1180s by a commander of Saladin's army. From its hilltop it guarded the routes through the north, protected local iron mines and watched over the Jordan Valley. The Mamluks later enlarged it, and it remained in use for centuries. Nearby, Tell Mar Elias is linked with the Prophet Elijah, who is believed to have come from this area, and has the ruins of a large Byzantine church with mosaics. In Anjara, the Church of Our Lady of the Mountain is a place of Christian pilgrimage.

Forest walks and nature

The Ajloun Forest Reserve protects a large area of evergreen oak woodland and is one of the best places in Jordan for walking. Marked trails of different lengths lead through the forest, past springs, caves and viewpoints, and some continue to nearby villages. Roe deer have been reintroduced to the reserve, and the woods are home to foxes, porcupines, wild boar and many birds. Spring brings orchids, cyclamen and red anemones. The long-distance Jordan Trail also passes through the governorate, linking it with Jerash to the south and Umm Qais to the north.

Village products and local food

Ajloun is known for its olives and olive oil, and the autumn harvest is an important time for families. Orchards produce figs, pomegranates and grapes, and honey from the forest flowers is a favourite local product. Local women's groups make olive oil soap, preserves, dried herbs and handmade crafts. Village kitchens serve dishes such as maqluba, mujaddara and stuffed vine leaves, often with fresh bread baked in a taboon, a traditional clay oven. Eating a home-cooked meal with a local family is one of the most memorable experiences in the area.

Highlights

• 1Ajloun Castle (Qal'at ar-Rabad)
• 2Walking trails in the Ajloun Forest Reserve
• 3Tell Mar Elias and its Byzantine church
• 4The Church of Our Lady of the Mountain in Anjara
• 5Village homestays and cooking sessions
• 6The cable car above Ajloun town
• 7Spring wildflowers in the oak forests

Frequently asked questions