Quasr Amra, Jordan (136/418)

Built in the early 8th century, this desert castle, which is exceptionally well-preserved, was a fortress that from time to time was used both as a garrison and a residence for the Omayyad caliphs. The most outstanding features of this small pleasure palace are the reception halls and the baths, all richly decorated with figurative murals that reflect the secular art of the time.