The King’s Highway

An Ancient Backdrop of Historical Milestones

Journeying through Jordan along the modern, asphalted "Highway 35," one cannot overlook the profound historical significance of this ancient thoroughfare known as the "King's Highway." Spanning millennia, the King's Highway has been a witness to the ebb and flow of civilizations that have left their mark on this storied land, with Al Karak standing as a testament to its strategic importance along this ancient route. Traversing through Arabia, the Fertile Crescent, the Red Sea, and Egypt, the King's Highway served as a vital conduit for merchants, warriors, and pilgrims alike, connecting Damascus, Jerusalem, Mecca, and Medina, and linking ancient empires and kingdoms from across the globe.

Positioned strategically along the King's Highway, Al Karak played a pivotal role as a nexus for trade and pilgrimage, exerting control over commercial roads that crisscrossed the region. From stone Ages to the present day, this historic route has facilitated the movement of caravans carrying incense and spices, making it a crucial artery of commerce between Africa, India, and the Far East. The King's Highway, with its ancient roots dating back to before the 8th century BC, continues to captivate travellers with its rich tapestry of prehistoric villages, towns, Crusader castles, and Islamic towns, offering a glimpse into the diverse tapestry of Jordan's past.

Mentioned in the Old Testament as the path traversed by Moses after leading the Israelites out of Egypt, the King's Highway is steeped in biblical lore, serving as a pilgrimage route for Christians following in the footsteps of their forebears. Likewise, Muslims journeyed along this historic thoroughfare on their way to Mecca until the construction of the Hijaz Railway. Today, while officially designated as Highway 35, the King's Highway endures as a symbol of resilience and continuity, bridging the ancient and the modern in a testament to Jordan's enduring heritage.

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