Karak
Karak has been a prized possession of a number of civilizations. It lays on the ancient caravan routes that used to connect Egypt to Syria and its commanding position almost 1000 meters above the Dead Sea Valley made it a strategic asset of great importance. The city was the ancient capital of Moab, and was also used by the Greeks and Romans. During Roman times it was known as Characmoba.
But it was not until the arrival of the Crusaders in the 12th century that Kerak reached its full splendor. It is recorded that the Crusader King Baldwin I of Jerusalem had the castle built in 1132 CE. With its location midway between Shobak and Jerusalem, Karak formed part of a great line of Crusader castles stretching from Aqaba to Turkey. Kerak became the capital of the Crusader district of Oultrejourdain, and, with the taxes levied on passing caravans and food grown in the district, it helped Jerusalem prosper.
Even with its impressive defensive fortifications, Karak could not hold out against the forces of Salah Eddin. After the governor of Karak, the infamous Reynaud De Chatillon, broke several truces with Salah Eddin, the Muslim leader responded with a massive bombardment of Karak. De Chatillon, who was captured and executed by Salah Eddin in 1187 CE, was known for throwing his captives off the top of Karak’s battlements with wooden boxes over their heads to ensure that they remained conscious until they hit the ground. Salah Eddin’s armies besieged and conquered the fortress in 1188, marking the beginning of the Crusaders’ loss of power throughout the area.
The Mamluk Sultan Baibars refortified the castle in the late 13th century, and it was also later used by the Ottomans. The fort itself has been partially restored, and is a maze of vaulted passages and rooms. To the west across the moat is the tower from which De Chatillon cast his prisoners to their deaths. The tower in the northwest corner was added by the Mamluks in the 13th century. The multi-storied building at the southern end was the dungeon. To the right of the castle entrance, a stone staircase descends to the museum, which holds one of the many copies of the Mesha Stele, along with Mamluk pottery, and Nabatean and Roman coins. The castle is open free of charge during daylight hours, while the museum is open daily 09:00-17:00 with a 1 JD admission.
The town of Karak lies 129 kilometers south of Amman, or 88 kilometers south of Madaba. Within Karak, numerous small hotels are available. Karak can be reached via the Desert Highway by turning right at Qatrana. However, the King’s Highway is the recommended route, as it will take you over one of Jordan’s most spectacular sights, Wadi Mujib. About 50 kilometers north of Karak, this canyon is over 1000 meters deep. Wadi Mujib was the “Arnon Gorge” or “Arnon River” of the Bible (Numbers 21: 24; Judges 11: 18), a natural boundary which separated the Moabites in the south from the Amorites in the north.
Punting in Paradise: New Zealand’s Betting Best
Are you ready to take a gamble in paradise? Look no further than New Zealand, where the thrill of punting awaits you. Known for its stunning landscapes and adventure tourism, New Zealand has also become a hotbed for betting enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or a novice looking to try your luck, this article will take you on a journey through the world of betting in New Zealand.
From horse racing to sports betting, New Zealand offers a wide range of betting options to satisfy every punter’s appetite. Join us as we explore the vibrant racing scene, where the thundering hooves and cheering crowds create an electric atmosphere. Discover the top betting sites and bookmakers that cater to Kiwi punters, providing a seamless and secure betting experience. Uncover the secrets to successful betting strategies and learn how to make the most of your wagers. So, get ready to dive into the world of punting in paradise, where the stakes are high and the rewards are even higher!
A Brief History of Punting in New Zealand: From Traditional Forms to Online Betting
Punting in Paradise: New Zealand’s Betting Best is an exhilarating experience that combines the breathtaking beauty of New Zealand’s landscapes with the thrill of sports betting. With its stunning natural scenery and vibrant sporting culture, New Zealand is a haven for both locals and tourists who enjoy the excitement of placing bets on their favorite sports.
One of the leading online betting platforms in New Zealand is Betzoid New Zealand. With its user-friendly interface and wide range of betting options, Betzoid New Zealand provides punters with an immersive and enjoyable betting experience. Whether you’re a fan of rugby, cricket, football, or horse racing, Betzoid New Zealand offers a diverse selection of sports and events to bet on.
What sets Betzoid New Zealand apart is its commitment to providing a safe and secure betting environment. With state-of-the-art encryption technology and strict privacy policies, punters can place their bets with peace of mind. Additionally, Betzoid New Zealand offers competitive odds, live betting options, and a variety of payment methods to ensure a seamless betting experience. So, whether you’re a seasoned punter or new to the world of betting, Betzoid New Zealand is the go-to platform for all your betting needs.
Exploring New Zealand’s Thriving Betting Industry: Key Players and Market Trends
When it comes to punting, New Zealand offers a betting experience like no other. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant cities, and a passion for sports, this island nation is the perfect destination for both casual bettors and seasoned punters. From horse racing to rugby, cricket to football, New Zealand has a wide range of sports and events to wager on, ensuring there is always something exciting happening in the world of betting.
One of the most popular forms of punting in New Zealand is horse racing. The country boasts world-class racecourses such as Ellerslie in Auckland and Riccarton Park in Christchurch, where adrenaline-pumping races take place throughout the year. Whether you’re a fan of the prestigious New Zealand Derby or the electrifying Melbourne Cup, horse racing in New Zealand offers a thrilling betting experience for all. With a rich history and a strong horse racing culture, it’s no wonder that punters flock to the tracks to place their bets.
Aside from horse racing, New Zealand is also passionate about rugby, with the national team, the All Blacks, being one of the most successful in the world. Rugby matches, especially when the All Blacks are playing, draw large crowds and create an electric atmosphere that punters can’t resist. From Super Rugby to international test matches, rugby betting opportunities are abundant, allowing fans to support their favorite teams and players while trying their luck at winning some extra cash. Whether you’re a rugby fanatic or just looking to add some excitement to your trip, punting on rugby in New Zealand is an experience not to be missed.
The Legal Landscape: Understanding the Regulations and Licensing of Betting in New Zealand
New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, adrenaline-pumping adventure activities, and now, it’s becoming a popular destination for punters looking for a thrilling betting experience. Punting in Paradise offers a unique opportunity to combine the excitement of betting with the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture that New Zealand has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned punter or new to the world of betting, this island nation has something for everyone.
From the bustling city of Auckland to the picturesque landscapes of Queenstown, there are plenty of options for punters to indulge in their favorite betting activities. New Zealand boasts a wide range of betting options, including horse racing, sports betting, casino gaming, and more. Horse racing enthusiasts can find top-notch racecourses across the country, where they can place their bets and witness exhilarating races.
Aside from the traditional betting options, New Zealand also offers unique opportunities to bet on its national pastimes such as rugby, cricket, and even the traditional Maori sport of ki-o-rahi. Additionally, with the rise of online betting platforms, punters can now enjoy the convenience of betting from anywhere in the country. So, whether you’re exploring the stunning landscapes or enjoying a night out in one of New Zealand’s vibrant cities, Punting in Paradise promises an unforgettable betting experience.
Uncovering New Zealand’s Most Popular Betting Sports: Rugby, Horse Racing, and Cricket
New Zealand may be known for its stunning landscapes and adventure activities, but it is also a haven for punters looking to place bets on a wide range of sports and events. From rugby and cricket to horse racing and tennis, there is something for everyone in this punting paradise. With a strong gambling culture and a plethora of top-notch betting sites and bookmakers, New Zealand offers a thrilling and immersive betting experience.
One of the most popular sports to bet on in New Zealand is rugby. The country has a rich rugby history and is home to the mighty All Blacks, known as one of the most successful rugby teams in the world. Rugby enthusiasts can place bets on both domestic and international matches, including the highly anticipated annual Super Rugby competition. For those who prefer a more traditional form of betting, horse racing is another favorite pastime. With a number of prestigious racecourses and a calendar full of thrilling races, punters can enjoy the excitement of watching their chosen steed thunder down the track while hoping for a big win.
From Land-based Bookmakers to Online Platforms: The Evolution of Punting in New Zealand
Punting in Paradise: New Zealand’s Betting Best
New Zealand is not only known for its stunning landscapes and adventure sports but also for its vibrant betting scene. Whether you’re an avid punter or just looking to try your luck, New Zealand offers a wide range of betting opportunities that are sure to satisfy all types of bettors. From horse racing and sports betting to casino games and lotteries, there is something for everyone in this betting paradise.
One of the most popular forms of betting in New Zealand is horse racing. With a rich racing heritage and a calendar full of exciting races, horse racing enthusiasts are spoilt for choice. From the prestigious New Zealand Derby to the adrenaline-pumping Karaka Million, there are plenty of opportunities to place your bets and experience the thrill of watching these magnificent creatures race to the finish line.
If horse racing isn’t your cup of tea, you can also indulge in sports betting, where you can wager on your favorite teams and athletes across a variety of sports. From rugby and cricket to football and basketball, New Zealanders are passionate about their sports, and the betting options reflect this. Whether you’re backing the All Blacks to win the next Rugby World Cup or placing a bet on the Black Caps to secure a cricket victory, sports betting adds an extra level of excitement to the game.
Whether you’re a seasoned punter or a casual bettor, New Zealand offers a betting experience like no other. From the thrill of horse racing at Ellerslie to the excitement of rugby matches at Eden Park, there’s something for everyone. And with a wide range of betting options available, including sports betting, casino games, and online platforms, you can enjoy the action wherever you are. So why not take a punt in paradise and see if luck is on your side? With stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and a vibrant betting culture, New Zealand is the ultimate destination for those looking to combine their love of gambling with a memorable holiday. So pack your bags, place your bets, and get ready for an unforgettable betting adventure in the land of the long white cloud.
