Latin Patriarchate School in Karak

History & Summary

Perched atop Jabal Shihan, overlooking the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, the Latin Patriarchate School – Karak is rich in both historical and spiritual significance. The region's Christian heritage dates back to 363 A.D., when Princess Mawia, a Bedouin warrior queen, requested the appointment of Bishop Moses—highlighting the early Arab Christian roots. The modern chapter of the school began in 1876, when Patriarch Braco sent the first Latin priest to Karak, with a mission focused on education and spiritual care. Formal development of the school took place under Father Hanna Dan, and by 1950, it was officially accredited as the “Catholic Union School.” As the only school in the district at that time, it welcomed students from both Christian and Muslim backgrounds, reflecting its spirit of inclusivity. As the only school in the district at the time, it served students from both Christian and Muslim backgrounds, reflecting the school’s spirit of inclusivity . From a modest beginning with just 17 students in 1932, the school grew to 660 students by the year 2000, becoming a beacon of learning in southern Jordan.