Historical Sites
Jordan has rich history and culture, with many different historical sites. From the ancient city of Petra to the Dead Sea Scrolls and Roman ruins, there are plenty of attractions to explore and admire.
Let’s take a look at some of the most famous historical sites in Jordan:
Petra
Petra, also known as Rose City, is an ancient historical site in Jordan known for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system. It is one of the most famous archaeological sites situated circa 2,000 feet (610 meters) above sea level, where visitors can bask in the area’s rich history. The ancient Nabataeans, around 300BC-100AD, constructed Petra and served as an important trading post for various goods, including spices, oils, and fabrics.
The entrance to Petra is through a 1 km long narrow gorge called Al Siq. Visitors walk along the canyon for about 800m and witness intricate rock-cut structures. The most notable form of this initial stretch is Al Khazneh or The Treasury – a tomb carved from a sheer mountain face with ornate sculptures lined atop each column. Further down presents Qasr al Bint Faroun or The Palace, which is believed to have house priests during olden times. Adjacent to this palace stands Arab’s Castle, which scours far back into prehistory, offering spectacular views of the valley below.
Other attractions in Petra include several temples such as the Temple of Winged Lions & Urn Tomb, Obelisks Tomb, and Great Temple Complex & High Place adjacent to the reservoir opposite El Deir Monastery or The Monastery. It takes an hour or two hike up to explore its magnificent façade made with staircases hewn from sandstone cliffs before concluding at Beidha – an old settlement from the Neolithic period believed to be linked with two renowned cities: Jerash & Madaba by trade roads.
Jerash
Jerash is a city in northern Jordan renowned for its remarkably well-preserved Greco-Roman ruins. Alexander the Great laid down the site’s foundations in the 4th century BC and expanded during the Roman period. The preserved ruins span over 2000 years of history, boasting two theatres, diverse temples, colonnaded streets, plazas, and baths.
The Temple of Zeus lies at the center of Jerash, with the remains of eight vertical columns set atop three levels. Close by is the Oval Plaza – at 90m in diameter, it’s one of the largest ancient stone paved areas ever found – and Hadrian’s Arch, built to celebrate a visit from Emperor Hadrian during his grand tour in 129 AD. Take some time to wander along its neatly restored colonnaded streets to get a full view of the immense site. There you will find several gateways, such as South Gate and Small Gate, and several temples, including Hercules temple and various baths, fountains, and shops.
The Temple of Artemis was discovered southeast of Jerash near Ajloun Castle. Its three 4th century AD sanctuaries perched on an elevated stone platform built on an even earlier Hellenistic sanctuary showing evidence of ritual practices almost 3000 years old. Finally, don’t miss out on visiting Jerash’s Amphitheatre, located to the northeast. Overlook splendid mountainous views – not only will you experience echoes from ancient music performances, but you’re likely to stumble upon film screenings or concerts!
Umm Qais
Umm Qais is an ancient city in northwestern Jordan known as Gadara in Roman times. It was known as a center for culture, religion, education, and trade and was a popular tourist stop for Romans who wanted to enjoy its rich cultural heritage. Views from the top of the tell (hill) provide a brilliant panorama of three countries – Jordan, Syria, and Israel – showcasing how diverse this region has been through the ages.
Umm Qais offers plenty of sights to explore while visiting Jordan. The 3rd-century synagogue stands as impressive as ever on the site of the great city. It has been painstakingly preserved by Jordanian authorities to help remember ancient Jewish life in this area. Other noteworthy attractions include sculptures that detail Greek gods, such as Dionysus, an odeon or theater where concerts used to be held, public baths, and the remains of 2nd-century mosaics depicting various gods, goddesses, and scenes from everyday life at that time. Some experts believe these were created during the reign of Emperor Hadrian.
Umm Qais also has a museum displaying items from different eras, such as Hellenistic statuettes and coins dating back to Alexander’s conquest. Visitors can also take in numerous Roman ruins scattered around Umm Qais and walk along renovated streets surrounded by old homes turned into restaurants today serving delicious dishes from the local cuisine. All these wonders will create an unforgettable experience for tourists visiting Umm Qais!
Nature and Outdoor Activities
Jordan is home to some of the most stunning natural vistas in the world, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers. From trekking in the sandstone canyons of Wadi Rum to swimming in the incredible depths of the Red Sea, there’s something here for everyone.
Let’s explore some of the best outdoor activities that Jordan has to offer:
Wadi Rum
Situated between the desert plains of Saudi Arabia and the red-rock mountains of Jordan, Wadi Rum may be one of the most stunning natural locations in the Middle East. The diverse landscape offers a place to explore and engage with nature through various outdoor activities. Here, travelers can traverse expansive deserts, climb and rappel sandstone rocks, explore incredible canyons, and ride camels with Bedouin guides.
Wadi Rum lies south of Amman city in Southern Jordan, over 720 kilometers. Travelers can visit Wadi Rum as a day trip or camp overnight in various Bedouin camps located within the area. Local groups provide guided tours with multiple packages to pick from, such as:
- Climbing tours
- All-terrain vehicle drives
- Sunbathing on remote beaches
There are also options to hear stories from local Bedouin tribesmen about life in this harsh environment.
In addition to rock climbing and camel rides, some companies offer hot air balloon rides for a unique vantage point over the entire valley. Independent visitors looking for other ways to explore an advantage of routes created by explorers in the 1950s that traverse through parts of Wadi Rum via hiking or biking paths that snake their way across endless desert expanses or narrow canyons where pools sparkle like stars at night.
Aqaba
Aqaba is the perfect place to experience a wide range of outdoor activities and nature-based attractions. Whether snorkeling and scuba diving, exploring the beautiful coral reefs along the Red Sea coast, camping in the stunning desert landscapes, or hiking in the serene Wadi Rum region, Aqaba offers something for everyone.
Snorkeling and scuba diving are two of the most popular activities in Aqaba, with plenty of varied marine life to explore in its colorful coral reef ecosystems. However, for those looking for a more relaxed day out, glass-bottom boat tours offer an excellent opportunity to view the underwater world without getting wet. Other water-based activities include fishing trips, jet skiing, stand-up paddle boarding, and banana boat rides.
The desert landscape is ideal for various activities, such as Jeep safaris and camping trips. You can explore dunes, mountains, and canyons while enjoying spectacular views of both land and sea. For an even more fantastic adventure, try sandboarding which is similar to snowboarding but emphasizes speed! Several biking trails in valleys between desert mountains and 4×4 dune buggy excursions are also available.
The Wadi Rum region is renowned for its unique terrain, which makes it ideal for hiking with several well-marked trails that range from easy walks around ancient ruins to more challenging full-day hikes. In addition, the star-studded night sky makes it an excellent destination for stargazing as well as creating an unforgettable experience that you won’t soon forget!
Dead Sea
One of the most remarkable attractions in Jordan is the Dead Sea. Located nearly 400 meters (1,300 feet) below sea level, the Dead Sea is said to be the lowest place on earth and one of its most beautiful. It features a large lake surrounded by steep hills and eroded canyons that can be seen from all sides. In addition, the ancient cities of The Dead Cities are nearby, preserved for centuries due to their inclusion in national parks like Dana Nature Reserve and World Heritage Sites.
Visitors of all ages have plenty to explore here, as activities such as hiking, biking, and swimming are available.
The water is also remarkable, containing abundant natural minerals that provide various therapeutic benefits, such as improved overall skin health and reduced muscle aches and pains. While many places in Jordan offer these natural remedies, the Dead Sea stands out due to its unique location and ease of accessibility – visitors can swim right into its salty waters with no special equipment or teams required. Furthermore, visitors choose between various spas or nearby resorts where they can relax while taking advantage of the specialty of this area, once known as Sodom & Gomorrah.
Cultural Sites
Jordan has a rich cultural heritage and many historical and archaeological sites. From the iconic Petra to the Crusader castle of Kerak, there is a wide variety of cultural attractions in Jordan to explore.
In this article, we will dive into the most popular cultural sites to visit while in Jordan:
Amman Citadel
The Amman Citadel is an ancient fort perched atop a hill in Amman, Jordan. It offers stunning views of the city below and is widely regarded as one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in the world. Estimated to have been settled as early as the Neolithic period by various cultures, including Greeks, Romans, and Nabateans, it has since become an important historical site.
Visitors to this archaeological site can explore several ruins from multiple eras, including remains from the Iron Age, Hellenistic period, Roman period, Byzantine period, and Umayyad period. Highlights include:
- a Byzantine church dating to the 6th century CE;
- two Islamic shrines;
- a large theater that once held up to 4,000 people constructed by the Romans in 166CE; and
- several Umayyad palaces placed strategically throughout the citadel grounds.
The sprawling terrain also houses several notable museums that provide visitors with a glimpse into the history of Jordan over thousands of years. The most well-known is The Jordan Archaeological Museum which features artifacts dating back throughout Amman’s rich history, including some 8000-year-old pottery fragments unearthed nearby. A souvenir shop can also be found on-site, with traditional Jordanian items.
The citadel also boasts awe-inspiring views of both old and new Amman. Moreover, it’s framed perfectly by its majestic stone walls – making it a historically significant area and an unforgettable experience.
Roman Theater
The Roman theater of Jerash is one of Jordan’s most important cultural sites and a must-see attraction. This ancient theater was built around AD 166 and is the best-preserved example of its kind today. This magnificent structure rises out of a cobblestone street, flanked by granite staircases and symmetrical walls. Its acoustics are extraordinary, with every audible noise traveling up to 80 meters away.
The Roman theater has been restored several times over the centuries and still hosts cultural events such as operas, ballets, and concerts during Jordan’s annual summer festival.
Mount Nebo
Mount Nebo, one of Jordan’s most significant biblical sites, is located on a mountain ridge in Madaba Governorate at an altitude of 817 meters (2,680 feet). The summit of Mount Nebo overlooks the Jordan River Valley and the Dead Sea to the west and provides panoramic views of Jericho in the valley below. According to medieval Christian tradition, Moses was buried on this mountain, and it is mentioned in the Bible (Deuteronomy 34:1).
From Mount Nebo, visitors can spot Jerusalem’s Dome of the Rock Mosque and other landmarks. Covering 58 hectares (143 acres), Mt. Nebo is also home to numerous ancient structures like churches built by early Christians who had settled there as pilgrimage sites. Two amazing mosaics depicting scenes from Old and New Testament stories are fascinating.
French archaeologists discovered the 3rd-century AD sanctuary atop Mt. Nebo in 1933. It consists of an outdoor altar with a panoramic view surrounded by an L-shaped Byzantine monastery containing baptisteries, accommodation niches carved into the rock wall, and three basilicas united by several corridors and small open spaces enclosed by stone walls with columns. Remains include an elaborate mosaic floor depicting Adam & Eve, Noah’s Ark leaving atop Mt Ararat and a map of Palestine featuring Jerusalem; panels featuring zodiac symbols; grapevine arches representing various biblical stories; as well as Coptic artwork and inscriptions from St Helena’s 5th-century pilgrimage from Constantinople to Palestine/Syria/ Israel/Jordan region. A Byzantine road connected the ancient main pilgrimage sanctuary on top with another site down below – probably a former hostel for pilgrims – where other ruins such as wine presses have been found. Together they form a unique archaeological landscape echoing centuries-old spiritual journeys undertaken for religious purposes.
Shopping and Dining
Jordan has many attractions that offer visitors the chance to enjoy Shopping and Dining experiences. From souks full of exotic souvenirs to authentic restaurants serving delicious cuisine, Jordan is home to various shopping and dining experiences you shouldn’t miss.
In this article, we will be looking at some of the best shopping and dining experiences in Jordan:
Souk Al-Baqarah
Souk Al-Baqarah is a popular shopping district in the Jordanian capital of Amman. The Souk, occasionally referred to as the Mutran Bazaar, is a vibrant marketplace where visitors can find traditional handcrafted items and regional specialties like spices, nuts, dried fruit, household wares, artisanal jewelry, and more at reasonable prices. It is also a great place to explore the city’s diverse culture and listen to local music while enjoying some traditional Jordanian delicacies.
The busy marketplace dates back to underground roots in 1895 when it was first established by wealthy merchants who sold their merchandise in stalls lined with canvas tents. Commonly known as ‘the cowbazaar’ amongst locals and travelers alike due to its warehouses of local farm produce – animal hide for tanning leather being one of them – over time, it became a stop for every visitor passing through Jordan.
In addition, many stands are dug into the ground that offers homemade food like falafel sandwiches with all sorts of vegetables and even foul (fava beans). You can taste traditional meals such as lamb kabobs; hummus spread with pita bread; fatoush salad (a combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley, and mint dressed in lemon juice); along with assorted juices from an array of fresh fruits like strawberries and mangoes.
Souk Al-Baqarah provides all shoppers an exciting venue for finding both big and small souvenirs at reasonable prices. Shopaholics can have fantastic bargains on handwoven scarves made from wool; handmade accessories crafted from silver or copper wire; local scarves designed with brightly colored beads made from wood or plastic; and creatively designed pottery. Foodies should not forget to try those delicacies while they explore this historic bazaar!
Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is a famous street located in the heart of Amman, Jordan. It runs from Jabal Amman in the northwest to the downtown area of Al Sweifieh. This vibrant street is widely known for its restaurants, cafes, and shops featuring local crafts and traditional clothing.
Rainbow Street holds international appeal as a charming destination to stroll through and explore. Some landmarks on Rainbow Street include the Live Park Amphitheatre, where you can catch a show or concert. In addition, the historic Rainbow Cinema offers classic movies at an affordable discounted rate every Thursday evening. Other highlights include the Islamic Arts Museum, and traditional falafel stands churning out delicious eats throughout the day.
This neighborhood has impressive cafe stops such as Books@Cafe, which doubles as both a bookstore and cafe; Emma’s Cafe; Kashefe; Lava Java; Scents Coffee Shop; Shams El Balad Cafe&restaurant*Twelve1Oats cafe; Zooza Cafe; Tic Tac Tea Café; ZiZ Café, and so much more! There are also many independent stores like Boutique Mareh, selling vintage furniture from travels abroad, Habiba Textiles offering beautiful handmade fabrics from around the region, and bookshops full of rare finds and delightful surprises to discover upon strolling along this charming street.
If you’re looking for a unique cultural experience complete with flavors native to Jordan – then Rainbow Street is your spot!
Al-Hussein Bin Ali Mosque
Al-Hussein Bin Ali Mosque, also known as the Blue Mosque, is one of Amman’s most stunning and well-known attractions. It is located in the heart of the city, just north of King Hussein Park, and is open to visitors year-round. It is the burial site of King Hussein bin Ali—who was the Grand Sharif of Mecca, founder and first King of Jordan—as well as other members of his family.
The mosque is impressive due to its great size and beautiful tiled walls and floors. Special occasions such as Eid holidays or Fridays (the Muslim holy day) are filled with worshippers in traditional clothing performing prayers. Visitors are pleasantly surprised at how welcoming locals are to outsiders who admire this artwork firsthand; whether you’re a guest or a member of a local faith community, be sure to bring your camera for those fantastic photo opportunities!
When visiting Al-Hussein Bin Ali Mosque, respect the customs accompanying exploring religious sites by wearing modest clothing—including covered shoulders and pants or skirts extending below your knee. Before taking photos inside, ask for permission from people inside or outside before snapping away.
Other Attractions
Jordan is home to various attractions that make the country a great travel destination. Aside from the popular monumental sites like Petra, there are many other attractions in the country. From various natural parks to breathtaking waterfalls, Jordan offers plenty of attractions for visitors to explore.
In this section, we will discuss some of the other attractions that Jordan has to offer:
Madaba Mosaic Map
The Madaba Mosaic Map, located in St. George’s Church in Madaba, Jordan, is a 6th-century AD mosaic depicting the Holy Land. The Madaba map is a comparative rarity because it is the oldest known surviving indicator map of Palestine and the medieval world. It dates back to an era before printed maps.
It stretches from Lebanon in the north to the Nile Delta in Egypt and from the Mediterranean Sea to the Eastern Desert. It contains all of present-day Jordan’s major cities, towns, roads, and landmarks, along with their approximate locations.
In addition to Jerusalem being depicted at its centerpiece as both a biblical city and as a modern cultural center for Christianity worldwide, many other parts of Biblical history dominate the northern part of the mosaic map featuring 30 named communities, including:
- Bethlehem
- Jericho
- Ebron
- Mezareth
- Hebron
- Lachis (likely meaning McLachlan)
- Sebatha (likely meaning Samwhere)
- Raphon (likely meaning Rapha)
Most notably, five columns on either side feature prominent locations along with its Greco-Roman names, such as Walid instead of Damascus. At the same time, Cana was still referred to as Kafr Kenna during this period.
Kerak Castle
Kerak Castle is an impressive Crusader castle situated in Al-Karak in Jordan. It stands on a hilltop overlooking the city, Wadi Kerak, and the Dead Sea region, occupying an area of 6 acres. The castle was built in 1142 during the Crusader period and was used as a medieval stronghold for 87 years until 1229, when Sultan al-Muazzami took it. The castle underwent several renovations throughout the Ayyubid, Mamluk, and Ottoman periods, and today its walls still stand tall as a testament to its long history.
The fortress-like structure consists of two main towers connected by a wall that stretches 140 meters long and five towers connected by walls running in two different directions. There are also interior sections consisting of four baths, two halls, and several small rooms down a long corridor. One notable feature of this popular attraction is the enormous iron gate that guards the entrance to the inner court. While exploring its depths, visitors will encounter an ancient well, old mosques, abandoned guard rooms, and defensive loopholes within its thick stone walls.
Kerak Castle holds numerous artifacts from previous Arab dynasties, such as pottery dating back to Roman times when it served as one of their military outposts. Worth visiting is also the “Museum Room,” which displays objects from earlier ages, including weapons unearthed at ancient ruins sites nearby. For centuries it has drawn locals and international tourists to explore its remains; many come armed with cameras, ready to capture every last detail of this impressive historic landmark!
Mujib Nature Reserve
Located south of the Dead Sea in Jordan, Mujib Nature Reserve offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore some of the country’s most pristine and rugged landscapes. In addition to its remarkable topography– carved by erosion into deep and narrow canyons – the reserve is renowned for its extraordinary diversity of plant and animal life. Home to numerous species of mammals, including wild sheep, goats, jackals, and hyenas; and more than 300 species of birds; Mujib Nature Reserve offers visitors an unparalleled opportunity to observe native wildlife in their natural environment.
As part of its commitment to conservation, the Jordanian government has established strict policies governing access to the reserve. Camping and open fires are strictly forbidden to reduce potential harm or disturbance to wildlife populations; visitors are also advised not to stray too far away from marked trails or guided tours. Nonetheless – with a wide range of activities available – including
- canyoning,
- hiking,
- swimming at natural pools or warm springs;
- bird-watching expeditions;
- Photography trips
- and even a visit to historical sites –
Exploring Mujib Nature Reserve is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience.