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The Glossary

Wadi - "a dried up riverbed found in the mountain valleys."

From Jordan Glossary

Azraq is known for its strategic location as an important link to caravan routes between Baghdad and Jerusalem and the terminus on the pilgrim route to Mecca. The tiny oasis town is also the home to the Qasr Azraq (Azraq Castle) that lies in the middle of the Azraq oasis and was the sole permanent source of fresh water during the ancient times. Aside from vehicles that come in and out of Azraq, millions of migratory birds stop at the Azraq Wetlands Reserve (Azraq al-Janoubi) annually to rest amid its natural pools and marshes over, attracting eco-tourist enthusiasts.

Depository of precious relics

Meaning “blue” in English, the Azraq Oasis is designated by the UNESCO as a World Heritage Site for its long history, beginning in the lower Paleolithic era. Overtime, hundreds of Paleolithic relics have been unearthed and documented in the wetland reserve, making it worthy as a heritage site.

The oasis once served as an important settlement of the Bedouin and Nabatean tribes. It was the Romans who were responsible in building the hexagonal castle which served as a headquarters of Lawrence of Arabia during the height of the Arab Revolt. Today, the castle if one of the draws that attracts visitors—aside from the chain of Umayyad farmhouse (Qasr Ain-Sil) that contains a number of hot baths.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Azraq is during spring when rain brings in the greening of the hills and the blooming of flowers. Visitors who can’t get enough of the wildlife reserve can allot a visit to the Shaumari Reserve, a sanctuary of endangered animals in the Middle East. From here, they can experience a classic safari trip and have the chance to see the elusive arabian oryx, onagers and gazelles.

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