Azraq

History: Azraq has been inhabited since ancient times due to its location in an oasis with vast tracts of desert extending for more than 12,000 square kilometers.

It has been the only source of fresh water on an important trading route passing through the desert. Azraq has been the choice of travellers and armies as a place of rest and replenishment. The Azraq Wetlands Reserve has several Paleolithic sites which show Azraq’s importance on the trade route passing through the desert. The Nabataens have also left marks of settlement activity in the area. The Romans have built the Azraq Palace which has been well preserved and was used by T.E. Lawrence during the Arab Revolt.

Geography: Azraq is located in the Zarqa Governorate about 100 kilometers east of Amman. It is situated in the Azraq oasis area which is unique due to the desert found on all sides of the area. It is the only source of fresh water in a desert of about 12,000 kilometers surrounding Azraq.

Demography: Azraq has a population of 9,021 people.

Tourism: Tourists are attracted to the geoglyphs found in the Azraq area which is dated back to more than 2,000 years. The large stone structures measure from 80 to 230 feet laid on lava fields in the shape of large wheels with spokes. The Azraq castle is a major tourist attraction with its big halls and well preserved walls. The Azraq Wetlands Reserve also attracts tourists due to the presence of migratory birds travelling between Europe and Africa.