Al-Azraq

Azraq is an oasis in the eastern desert, where springs and pools offered fresh water amid a vast arid landscape. Its fortress, built of black basalt, guarded routes leading from Syria and Iraq towards Arabia through Wadi Sirhan. Roman builders established a stronghold here, later altered by Islamic rulers; its massive stone doors, towers and courtyard made it a distinctive landmark amid the wetlands.

The fortress was rebuilt in the medieval period, when its position mattered to rulers concerned with communication between Syria and Arabia. In the sixteenth century the Ottomans stationed a garrison at Azraq. Caravans approaching the oasis found water and shelter near the stronghold, whose dark volcanic stone contrasted with the reed beds and pools surrounding it. The oasis remained a rare stopping place between the settled lands and the open desert.