Historical landmarks aren’t just still-standing remains from the bygone eras. Instead, they are the trail marks that can lead us from the present to the frozen past and allow us to take a peek into deceased lifestyles, deep into the ancient cultures, and how life used to be for the human race still climbing the stairs of development and civilization. A place brimming with such ancient history that can distort reality is Jordan, a country with a rich and turbulent history that boasts wonders of Jordan, and landmarks dating back thousands of years.
One of the world’s oldest continually inhabited cities in the world is Amman, the capital of Jordan. Some of its still-standing ruins date back to the Stone Age period. Other historical sites within its borders include the ancient biblical kingdoms of Moab, Gilead, and Edom. We can forget the famous red-stone city of Petra, which was the capital of the Nabatean kingdom in the 6th century BC.
Today, the country welcomes thousands of history fanatics, tourists, and travelers to its plethora of fascinating historical sites.
Unveiling the Top Six Ancient Wonders of Jordan
Jordan has seen various empires come and go. As a regular trade and conquering pathway, it has been strongly influenced by civilizations from neighboring countries. Numerous civilizations left behind monuments and archaeological sites that are now history’s crown treasures. Here are the unmissable ancient wonders of Jordan, awaiting to be explored:
1.Jerash
Jerash, often referred to as the ‘Pompeii of the East,’ is one of the most popular historical sites, not only in Jordan but worldwide. Its gorgeous, perfectly preserved architecture, which many believe to be cursed, can mesmerize the eye.
Often considered the crossroads of Greco-Roman and Levantine cultures, the site adorns itself with a hippodrome, trading stalls, residences, and temples dedicated to Zeus and Artemis. It also offers ancient churches, water and sewage systems, two theatres, a mosque, a colonnade, and a Cardo. One of the most popular sites to visit in Jerash is the Nymphaeum, built in 190 AD. Attracting thousands of history lovers throughout the year, it’s unheard of to visit Jordan and not set a day aside to explore the wonders of Jordan at the landmark of Jerash..
2.Petra
Humankind has inhabited the ancient capital of the Nomadic Kingdom of the Nabateans, Petra, since the Palaeolithic era. With an architectural style so distinctive that it’s easily identifiable. Petra remains to be the one of most visited historical landmarks in Jordan. You can observe Petra’s frozen-in-time beauty in the temples and tombs that are intricately carved from the famous red rocks and cliffs. Tourists exploring the site can also see remnants of the Roman era and a Byzantine cathedral with detailed mosaics from the early 6th century.
These mosaics depict mundane objects, mythological animals, and personifications of the seasons, the ocean and the earth. Other sites to explore in the landmark include the tomb of Sextius Florentinus, the Roman Governor’s tomb, the Roman palace, and the remnants of the main colonnaded avenue. With so much to discover and marvel at, visiting Petra should be on everyone’s travel list.
3.Wadi Rum
Located in southern Jordan near the Saudi Arabian border, Wadi Rum, also known as the ‘Valley of the Moon,’ comprises a valley naturally carved into the sandstone and granite rock, covering a total area of 74,000 hectares.
While it’s easy to mistake the site as a natural landscape, it actually possesses a deep history like many other Jordanian sites. This diverse desert terrain is full of towering cliffs, caves, and taverns, which include petroglyphs, inscriptions, and archaeological remnants.
These ancient wonders attest to 12,000 years of human inhabitation in this natural valley. With over 25,000 rock carvings and 20,000 inscriptions that trace the development of human civilization and the early development of the alphabet. Wadi Rum was once a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2011.
4.Umm Qais
Once a prosperous Roman city called Gadara, Umm Qais welcomes countless visitors to its beautiful ruins and unique ambiance all year round. The site is located on a hilltop. Which makes it an ideal location to experience the breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley. Umm Qais has two still-standing Roman sites, which include two old theatres. Because of its perfect location overlooking the Jordan Valley and the Sea of Galilee. The ancient city used to be a famous Roman vacation destination, attracting scholars, writers, and artists.
5.Madaba
If you’re looking for the most stunning mosaics from the Byzantine era, you’ll find them in Madaba. Situated southwest of Amman. The city is famous for the 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. The map is also the world’s largest mosaic map discovered in 1884. Despite being rich in history; the town offers a balanced travel experience. Huge colourful markets and beautiful landscapes await tourists to wander and get lost in them.
6.Ajloun Castle
For all the history buffs from all over the world, hiding near northwestern Jordan is the Ajloun Castle. This castle is a one-of-a-kind siege warfare souvenir from the past.
The nephew of the Muslim military leader Saladin built this castle between the years 1184 and 1188 with the intention of instilling fear in the hearts of the Franks. The castle’s strategic location allowed Saladin’s forces to keep track of the movement of any intruders across the Jordan Valley.
Mount ‘Auf, commonly known as Jabal Auf, hosts Ajloun Castle. After exploring the exterior of the castle and taking in the expansive views, head inside the Ajloun Archaeological Museum. The museum is located inside the castle and is a great spot to pause and view incredible pottery, ceramics, exhibitions, and artifacts.
A Journey Through Jordan’s Diverse History
Jordan, a country of astonishing and diverse antiquity, fulfills the dreams of history lovers. It boasts lost ancient cities, Roman ruins, stunning mosaics, and 12th-century castles waiting to be explored. Apart from showcasing ruins and architecture of ancient times, the country’s breathtaking natural beauty demands attention. Visitors can’t overlook the monochrome deserts, wind-sculpted valleys, pristine coral reefs, and the mesmerizing geology of the Dead Sea.
For those itching to discover the lost treasures of the past, Jordan is the right destination to start. Do you want to explore the country’s stunning beauty with pre-booked accommodations, guided tours, and the opportunity to skip the lines? If the answer’s yes, then you’re in the right place.
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