Watch Global Treasures: Jordan's Crusader Castles

Global Treasures: Jordan's Crusader Castles is a documentary film about the castles built during the Crusader period in Jordan. The movie provides an insightful look into the history of the region and its significance in the medieval world. Directed by Andre Singer, the movie takes the viewers on a journey through the ruins of the castles and provides a stunning visual representation of their grandeur.

The movie begins with an introduction to the history of the Crusader era and the reasons for its occurrence. It explains how the Christian pilgrims from Europe embarked on a quest to liberate Jerusalem from the Muslim rule in the 11th century. The film contextualizes the Crusades by providing an overview of the events leading up to it, as well as the political and religious landscape of the Middle East at that time.

The movie then shifts its focus to the castles built by the Crusaders in Jordan, which served as strategic strongholds during the Crusader period. The film examines several prominent castles, such as Kerak, Shobak, and Montreal, all of which were built by the Crusaders in the 12th century. The audience is treated to exceptional views of the castles and the surrounding landscape, providing a breathtaking spectacle that showcases the majesty of the region.

The documentary also delves into the various architectural styles employed in constructing these castles, shedding light on the influence of various cultures on the Crusader architecture. The extensive exploration of the castles provides valuable insights into the technological advancements of that era, highlighting the ingenuity and skill of the Crusader builders.

Throughout the movie, the director also provides historical context by integrating interviews with scholars and experts in the field of history. These interviews help the audience gain a deeper understanding of the Crusader period and the significance of the castles in preserving the Christian legacy in the region. The experts also explain how the castles were built to withstand the attacks of the Muslim armies, and how they served as a symbol of Crusader resistance.

The movie also showcases the various challenges faced by the Crusaders during their occupation of the region. It explores the complex relationships between the different factions, such as the Franks, the Muslims, and the Crusaders, and provides insights into the political and military strategy employed by the various sides. The depiction of the conflicts between the different factions brings to life the historical importance of the castles in shaping the political landscape of the region.

The movie concludes with a reflection on the lasting legacy of the Crusaders in Jordan. The film shows how the Crusader castles are now a vital part of the cultural heritage of the region, serving as a historical reminder of the medieval period. The final shots of the castles provide a fitting end to the documentary, showcasing their vastness and grandeur and providing a glimpse into the past.

Global Treasures: Jordan's Crusader Castles provides an insightful and engaging look into an often-overlooked aspect of medieval history. The stunning visual representation of the castles, combined with the informative commentary by experts in the field, makes this documentary an exceptional viewing experience. The movie is a must-watch for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture, and provides a valuable addition to the canon of documentary films devoted to the study of the Middle East.