Jordan, a land of ancient wonders and breathtaking landscapes, offers far more than its world-renowned rose-red city of Petra. This Middle Eastern gem boasts a rich tapestry of historical sites, natural marvels, and cultural experiences that often fly under the radar of many travellers. From Roman ruins to desert expanses and mineral-rich waters, Jordan’s diverse attractions cater to history buffs, nature enthusiasts, and adventure seekers alike. Discovering these hidden treasures reveals the true depth and complexity of this fascinating country, offering a journey through time and terrain that will leave you awestruck and yearning for more.
Exploring the ancient ruins of jerash: roman city in the levant
Nestled in the hills of northern Jordan, Jerash stands as one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. This archaeological wonder, often referred to as the “Pompeii of the East,” offers visitors a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Roman urban life. As you wander through its colonnaded streets and monumental structures, the echoes of a bygone era resonate through every stone and archway.
The oval plaza: heart of roman gerasa
At the centre of Jerash lies the impressive Oval Plaza, a unique architectural feature that served as the city’s bustling forum. Surrounded by a colonnade of Ionic columns, this vast space measures 90 meters in length and 80 meters in width. The plaza’s distinctive shape and grand scale reflect the prosperity and sophistication of Roman Gerasa. Today, as you stand in this ancient gathering place, it’s easy to imagine the vibrant scenes of public life, political debates, and market activities that once animated this space.
Hadrian’s arch: monumental gateway to jerash
Marking the southern entrance to Jerash, Hadrian’s Arch stands as a testament to the city’s importance in the Roman world. Built in 129 AD to commemorate Emperor Hadrian’s visit, this triumphal arch rises 11 meters high and spans 37.5 meters in width. Its intricate carvings and imposing presence set the tone for the architectural marvels that await within the city walls. As you pass through this grand gateway, you ‘re literally walking in the footsteps of Roman emperors and dignitaries.
The hippodrome: chariot racing and gladiatorial contests
The ancient Hippodrome of Jerash offers a rare glimpse into the world of Roman entertainment. This massive structure, measuring 244 meters long and 52 meters wide, could seat up to 15,000 spectators. Here, thrilling chariot races and gladiatorial contests once captivated audiences. Today, the Hippodrome hosts re-enactments of Roman army drills and chariot races, allowing visitors to experience a taste of ancient Roman spectacle. The thundering hooves and cheering crowds transport you back to an era of high-stakes competition and pageantry.
Temple of artemis: architectural marvel of jordan
Dominating the western side of Jerash, the Temple of Artemis stands as one of the most impressive structures in the ancient city. Dedicated to the patron goddess of Gerasa, this grand temple was built between 150-170 AD. Its towering Corinthian columns, each standing 12 meters high, create an awe-inspiring sight. The temple’s intricate architectural details and strategic hilltop location showcase the Romans’ mastery of both engineering and aesthetics. As you explore this magnificent ruin, consider the devotion and skill required to create such an enduring monument to divine worship.
Wadi rum: desert landscapes and bedouin culture
Venturing into the heart of southern Jordan, you ‘ll encounter the otherworldly beauty of Wadi Rum. This vast desert expanse, also known as the Valley of the Moon, captivates visitors with its dramatic sandstone mountains, ancient rock carvings, and ever-shifting sand dunes. Wadi Rum’s unique landscape has served as a backdrop for numerous films, including Lawrence of Arabia and The Martian , testament to its almost planetary appearance.
Jebel umm ad dami: jordan’s highest peak
For adventure seekers and panorama enthusiasts, Jebel Umm ad Dami offers an unparalleled experience. Standing at 1,854 meters above sea level, this mountain is Jordan’s highest peak. The ascent, while challenging, rewards climbers with breathtaking views that stretch across the Wadi Rum Protected Area and even into Saudi Arabia and Egypt on clear days. The trek typically takes about 2-3 hours each way, allowing ample time to soak in the stark beauty of the surrounding desert landscape.
The seven pillars of wisdom: T.E. lawrence’s legacy
Named after T.E. Lawrence’s autobiographical account of the Arab Revolt against the Ottoman Empire, the Seven Pillars of Wisdom is a striking rock formation that dominates the Wadi Rum skyline. These majestic sandstone cliffs, sculpted by millennia of wind and weather, create a natural monument that seems to defy gravity. While the formation doesn’t actually consist of seven distinct pillars, its imposing presence and historical significance make it a must-see attraction for visitors to Wadi Rum.
Khazali canyon: ancient petroglyphs and narrow gorges
Khazali Canyon offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical significance. This narrow gorge, stretching about 100 meters in length, is renowned for its ancient petroglyphs depicting humans and animals. These rock carvings, some dating back to the Thamudic era, provide fascinating insights into the area’s long human history. As you squeeze through the canyon’s narrow passages, the sense of discovery and connection to past civilizations is palpable.
Burdah rock bridge: natural arch formation
Among Wadi Rum’s many geological wonders, the Burdah Rock Bridge stands out as a testament to nature’s artistic prowess. This natural arch, formed through eons of erosion, rises dramatically from the desert floor. For the adventurous, climbing to the top of the arch offers an exhilarating experience and unparalleled views of the surrounding landscape. The ascent requires some scrambling and a good head for heights, but the reward is well worth the effort.
The silence and majesty of Wadi Rum’s landscape have a way of putting life into perspective, reminding us of our small place in the grand tapestry of time and nature.
The dead sea: Mineral-Rich waters and spa therapies
No visit to Jordan is complete without experiencing the unique properties of the Dead Sea. As the lowest point on Earth at 423 meters below sea level, this landlocked salt lake offers a surreal floating experience due to its extremely high salt content. Beyond its novelty, the Dead Sea is renowned for its therapeutic properties, drawing visitors from around the world seeking health and wellness benefits.
Mujib biosphere reserve: canyoning and hiking adventures
Adjacent to the Dead Sea, the Mujib Biosphere Reserve offers a stark contrast to the arid surroundings. This dramatic gorge, cutting through rugged mountains to reach the Dead Sea shore, is home to stunning waterfalls and diverse wildlife. The reserve’s hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging canyoning adventures, catering to various fitness levels. The Siq Trail, a water-filled canyon hike, is particularly popular, offering a refreshing escape from the desert heat.
Dead sea mud: natural skincare and therapeutic properties
The mineral-rich mud of the Dead Sea is famous for its purported healing and beautifying properties. Rich in minerals like magnesium, sodium, and potassium, this natural mud is believed to improve skin health, relieve muscle and joint pain, and enhance overall well-being. Many resorts along the Dead Sea shore offer mud treatments, allowing visitors to slather themselves in the black, nutrient-dense mud before rinsing off in the buoyant waters.
| Mineral | Concentration (g/kg) | Potential Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Magnesium | 35-36 | Skin hydration, anti-inflammatory |
| Sodium | 40-80 | Skin barrier function, antimicrobial |
| Potassium | 6-8 | Moisture retention, skin metabolism |
Lot’s cave: biblical site and archaeological discoveries
Perched on a hillside overlooking the Dead Sea, Lot’s Cave is a site of both religious significance and archaeological interest. According to biblical tradition, this cave provided refuge for Lot and his daughters following the destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah. Recent excavations have uncovered a Byzantine church and monastery complex dating back to the 5th century AD, shedding light on the area’s long history of pilgrimage and settlement.
Amman citadel: historical tapestry of jordan’s capital
Overlooking the bustling streets of modern Amman, the Citadel hill (Jabal al-Qal’a) stands as a testament to the city’s long and varied history. This ancient site has been continuously occupied for over 7,000 years, bearing witness to the rise and fall of numerous civilizations. As you explore the Citadel, each structure and artifact tells a part of Amman’s rich historical narrative.
Temple of hercules: roman ruins on jebel al qala’a
The most prominent Roman structure on the Citadel is the Temple of Hercules. Built during the reign of Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161-180 AD), this temple once dominated the ancient city’s skyline. Today, its massive columns and hand-carved capitals stand as a reminder of Roman architectural prowess. The temple’s location offers panoramic views of downtown Amman, creating a striking juxtaposition of ancient and modern urban landscapes.
Umayyad palace complex: early islamic architecture
Dating back to the 8th century AD, the Umayyad Palace Complex represents one of the most significant early Islamic architectural sites in Jordan. This sprawling complex includes a mosque, cistern, and several residential and administrative buildings. The palace’s domed audience hall, with its distinctive cross-shaped design, is particularly well-preserved and offers insights into the opulence and sophistication of Umayyad royal life.
Jordan archaeological museum: artifacts from neolithic to islamic eras
Housed within the Citadel complex, the Jordan Archaeological Museum showcases a diverse collection of artifacts spanning thousands of years of human history. From Neolithic figurines to Byzantine mosaics and Islamic coins, the museum’s exhibits provide a comprehensive overview of Jordan’s archaeological heritage. Of particular note are the Ain Ghazal statues, some of the oldest human-form sculptures ever discovered, dating back to around 6500 BC.
The Amman Citadel serves as a physical timeline of human civilization, where layers of history are stacked upon each other, waiting to be unraveled by curious minds.
Dana biosphere reserve: Eco-Tourism and biodiversity hotspot
Nestled in south-central Jordan, the Dana Biosphere Reserve stands as a testament to the country’s commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism. Spanning an area of 320 square kilometers, this reserve encompasses four distinct bio-geographical zones, from Mediterranean to Sudanian penetration, making it a unique ecosystem in the region. The reserve’s dramatic landscapes, ranging from sandstone cliffs to lush oases, provide a haven for diverse flora and fauna, including several endangered species.
Feynan ecolodge: sustainable tourism in wadi feynan
At the western edge of the Dana Biosphere Reserve lies Feynan Ecolodge, a pioneering example of sustainable tourism in Jordan. This solar-powered lodge, built in partnership with the local Bedouin community, offers visitors an immersive eco-friendly experience. Activities at Feynan include stargazing in one of the world’s darkest skies, learning traditional Bedouin crafts, and exploring ancient copper mines. The lodge’s commitment to sustainability extends to its operations, with locally sourced food and employment opportunities for the Bedouin community.
Rummana campsite: stargazing and wilderness experience
For those seeking a more rustic experience, the Rummana Campsite offers an opportunity to connect intimately with nature. Located in a beautiful mountain setting, this campsite provides basic amenities while allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the reserve’s wilderness. The clear night skies above Rummana make it an ideal spot for stargazing, with the Milky Way often visible to the naked eye. During the day, the campsite serves as a base for hiking adventures and wildlife observation.
Wadi dana trail: 14km trek through diverse ecosystems
The Wadi Dana Trail, stretching 14 kilometers from Dana village to Feynan, offers hikers a chance to experience the reserve’s diverse ecosystems firsthand. This challenging trek descends over 1,000 meters through varied terrain, from juniper forests to arid wadis. Along the way, hikers may encounter some of the reserve’s 700 plant species and 215 bird species. The trail not only showcases the area’s natural beauty but also provides insights into the traditional lifestyles of the local Bedouin communities.
Jordan’s attractions beyond Petra offer a rich tapestry of experiences that cater to diverse interests. From the Roman grandeur of Jerash to the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum, the therapeutic waters of the Dead Sea to the historical depths of Amman’s Citadel, and the ecological wonders of Dana Biosphere Reserve, each site contributes to a comprehensive understanding of Jordan’s natural and cultural heritage. These destinations not only provide unforgettable experiences but also support local communities and conservation efforts, ensuring that Jordan’s treasures can be enjoyed by generations to come.