Jordan, Umayyad Desert Palaces and Castles

The video explores the Umayyad desert castles in Jordan, built between 660 and 750 AD. These castles, including Kassar Amrah, Kassar al Azraq, Kassar al Halabat, and Kasar Mishata, showcase early Islamic art and architecture. Kassar Amrah is noted for its frescoes and UNESCO status. Kassar al Azraq, a strategic fortress, was used by Romans and Ottomans. Kassar al Halabat, originally a Roman fortress, was redeveloped by the Umayyads. Kasar Mishata, the Winter Palace, remains partially completed, with its facade displayed in Berlin.

What was the primary reason for the construction of Umayyad desert castles?

• To serve as religious sites

• To serve as military fortresses

• To act as royal retreats

• To function as trade centers

Which future Umayyad Caliph was responsible for building Kassar Amrah?

• Yazid II

• Al-Walid I

• Hisham Ibn Abd al-Malik

• Walid Ibn Yazid

What is Kassar Amrah most notable for?

• Its military architecture

• Its frescoes depicting rulers and the Zodiac

• Its large size

• Its strategic location

What was the strategic importance of Kassar al Azraq?

• Its proximity to the capital

• Its location near an oasis

• Its religious significance

• Its large size

Which historical figure is associated with Kassar al Azraq?

• Alexander the Great

• Saladin

• T.E. Lawrence

• Julius Caesar

What was the original purpose of Kassar al Halabat?

• A Roman fortress

• A trade center

• A religious site

• A royal palace

Where can the facade of Kassar Mishata be found today?

• The Louvre in Paris

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York

• The Pergamon Museum in Berlin

• The British Museum in London