Iraq El-Amir near Amman, Jordan

Muna's brother Majid asked if we were interested in visiting Iraq Al-Amir, a winding valley (Wadi) just west of where we are staying in Marj Al-Hamam, in the southern suburbs of Amman, Jordan. Would we ever! A lovely sunny day emerged from the cloudy morning skies. No camera can capture the vastness and majesty of this region. After winding up and down narrow mountain passes several times, we found ourselves in rural agricultural Jordan. The recent hevy rains have given new life to the mountain slopes, and farmers grow crops including lettuce and leeks. After rain, deep gullies carry water to the valley below.
A donkey stands next to an irrigation channel - these are used extensively in this area to collect precious water oozes from the land. Donkeys are still widely used for transport, and in this terrain, it is clear why. This one has plenty of grass to eat.
Here are some houses with a view. Not sure what you do if you kick a soccer ball over he fence!
Amazingly, from almost nowhere, emerges Castle Iraq El-Amir, dating back to the 2nd century
A local Jordanian caretaker welcomed us. Many older Arab men in Jordan still wear the traditional clothing. He, like many in the region, was very concerned about the state of the world, especially the changes taking place in the Arab world.
Muna showed off her snazzy socks! Wildflowers abounded.
The construction technique reminded Allan of his leggo blocks. Not so good in earthquakes!
A nice entrance to the castle must have been a welcome site for the tired travellers.
Inside the walls are constructed solely of large stones. It must have been grand in its day.

From the windows there is a great view of the surrounding hills and valleys.
Several rock carvings remain. This lion is on the highest level.
The side of the castle consists of large stone blocks forming windows, some of the lower ones have been partly reconstructed, but the upper ones are clearly original.
Nearby, stone implements used for grinding grain are well preserved. Sections of fluted columns are also readily seen.
Muna and her sister-in-law Nuha, wife of her oldest brother, give some idea of the scale of the castle.
They were also looking for a nice place to have a picnic at some later date. Lots of choices.
Obligingly, Nuha and Muna give a perspective of just how big some of these stone blocks are - it's amazing what slaves were able to do.
Looking through the castle to the mountains beyond.
This animal probably was used as part of a fountain.
wild flowers abounded.

Further along the wadi we found a stream. The sound of running water in this desert environment is captivating.
The gurgling sound of the stream was loud and inviting enough to even got Majid out of the car to take a look around.
The "girls" obliged again!

Just a few more days left of our wonderful visit to Jordan.