Beit Jabr al-Tahtani

History

The history of this small tower remains unknown, but its location on the ancient road from Jerusalem to Jericho, at the outlet of Wadi al-Qilt, suggests that it may have been a Templar outpost intended to protect pilgrims travelling to the site of the Baptism, much like Maldouin, located a few kilometres to the west.

Standing on a small rocky mound whose base was probably artificially modified, the tower slightly overlooks the Jordan Valley.

Description

The tower has a rectangular plan, measuring approximately ten metres in length and five in width. Its masonry consists of roughly dressed small stones. Only the openings feature carefully worked stones, either smoothly dressed or with rusticated bosses.

The entrance, of which only the base of one jamb survives, was located in the eastern wall. A staircase leading to the upper floor was built into the considerably thicker southern wall. The small chamber providing access to this staircase is lit by a narrow opening with a simple splay.