Ajloun, also spelled Ajlun, is a historical town located in the north of Jordan, surrounded by fertile countryside and pine-forested hills. It is famous for its impressive 12th-century Muslim castle, Ajloun Castle (Qala'at ar-Rabad), which was built by one of Saladin's generals, Izz al-Din Usama bin Munqidh, to control local iron mines and to counter the threat of the Crusader states to the west. The castle stands on the ruins of a monastery, overlooking the Ajloun forest reserve and offers panoramic views of the Jordan Valley. Ajloun is also known for its mild climate, olive groves, fig trees, and vineyards. It is part of the Ajloun Governorate and has a rich history that spans several civilizations, including the Byzantines and the Ottomans, contributing to its cultural heritage. The town and its surrounding region attract tourists and local visitors who come to explore its natural beauty, historical sites, and to enjoy hiking and eco-tourism activities. Ajloun also serves as a market town for the local agricultural products from the surrounding region.
