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This review aims to reappraise the history of Petra region during the Crusader period (A.D.1100-1188), based on both historical and archaeological sources. It discusses the archaeological evidence of Crusader settlement in Petra and al-Wuayra castle, and gives a description of the castle. It also considers the expeditions of the Crusaders kings to Petra during the first half of 12th century, drawing from the historical accounts of Crusader historians which provide important information about al-Wuayra castle, and some economic and social aspects in Petra during this period. Attention also focuses on the writings of 19th-20th century European travelers and the end of Crusader occupation in Petra.

This study is a review and in several cases it sheds light upon the history of Jerusalem City during the Roman and Byzantine epochs through focusing on a) the demography of the city, b) the names which had been mentioned in historical sources, c) ancient inscrip-tions and d) its urban design. The review goes through Jewish sources, particularly those which deal with the reign of the Roman leader, Pompey (Pompey the Great) and the Maccabees (Machabees); the reign of the Roman Emperor, Titus, during which the Jews were tortured; the reign of the Roman king of Jews, Herod (or Herod the Great); the reign of the Roman Emperor, Ha-drian; and the converting of the City from paganism to Christianity.