Explore the ancient city of Jerash, one of the most well-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. The ruins are a testament to the grandeur of Imperial Rome and are often referred to as the 'Pompeii of the East' owing to their remarkable state. During your tour, you can witness the majestic Hadrian’s Arch, the Forum with its soaring columns, the impressive Temple of Artemyalong and the preserved colonnaded streets. Take a stroll along the Cardo and imagine the once-bustling marketplace and city life. A local guide will regale you with stories and the history of this archaeological treasure, enhancing your understanding of the civilizations that once thrived here.
While visiting Jerash, don't miss the opportunity to take a half-day trip to Ajloun Castle, an Islamic fort that dates back to the 12th century. Located atop a mountain just outside Jerash, Ajloun offers commanding views of the Jordan Valley. The castle was built by the nephew of the famous Muslim military leader Saladin, in the context of the Crusades and served as a strategic military fort that controlled the iron mines of Ajloun and defended against Crusader incursions. The fortress also played a role in controlling the agricultural areas in the Jordan Valley and was used to protect the trade and commercial routes between Jordan and Syria. It has been rehabilitated and is now a prominent historical site that provides visitors with a glimpse into Islamic military architecture and history.
Positioned within the vicinity of the ancient ruins, the Jerash Archaeological Museum offers a deeper insight into the city's rich history. With artifacts spanning the Bronze Age to the Mamluk period, the museum showcases a vast collection of items from Jerash and the surrounding region. Included in the collection are beautiful mosaics, pottery, coins, statues, and even tools used by the early inhabitants of the city. The museum's displays are well-curated, providing visitors with a window into the everyday lives of the people who lived here over the centuries. It's a perfect complement to the visit to the ruins, helping to complete the picture of life in this once magnificent Roman city.
A walk through the Oval Plaza and down the Cardo Maximus is an experience not to be missed when you're in Jerash. The Oval Plaza, an unusual wide, elliptical forum surrounded by a colonnade of 1st-century Ionic columns, was once the social heart of Jerash. From the plaza, you can walk down the Cardo, the city's main street, which is lined with the columns of what were once bustling shops. The Cardo street is particularly well-preserved, with the ruts of chariot wheels still visible in the paving stones. As you stroll down this ancient thoroughfare, you'll feel transported back in time, getting a sense of the splendor and vibrancy of the ancient city at the height of its glory.
The Nymphaeum is Jerash's ancient and ornate public fountain that dates back to the 2nd century AD. Dedicated to the nymphs, this impressive structure was once adorned with marble panels and a complex system of pipes feeding the fountains that spilled water into a large pool. The partially restored remains give visitors a glimpse into the city's Roman wealth and the luxurious lifestyle of its citizens. The Nymphaeum is centrally located close to other attractions and the main pathway through the ruins, making it an easy stop during your exploration of the ancient city. Its location also provides some shade, making it a good place to pause and contemplate the ingenuity and artistry of the ancient Roman engineers and artisans.
Start your visit to Jerash with the majestic Hadrian’s Arch, a triumphal arch built to commemorate Emperor Hadrian’s visit in 129 AD. The arch marks the ancient city's entrance and stands as a testament to its historical significance. Beyond the arch is the Hippodrome, where you can attend the reenactment of a Roman chariot race, complete with gladiator fights and ancient sports competitions. The Jerash Chariot Experience (JCE) operates these performances, offering a thrilling taste of the entertainment that would have been common in Roman times. Watch as charioteers in traditional costumes race around the ancient track, and imagine the roar of the ancient crowds that once filled the stands.
If your visit coincides with the annual Jerash Festival of Culture & Arts, you’re in for a treat. This event transforms the ruins of Jerash into a lively venue for dance, music, and theatrical performances. Artists and performers from Jordan and around the world come together to celebrate cultural diversity and heritage in one of the most historical settings in the Middle East. Past festivals have hosted a wide array of events from traditional Arabic music concerts to ballets and modern theatrical performances. The festival also offers a chance to sample local cuisine and shop for handcrafted goods at the numerous stalls set up by local artisans. The festival typically takes place during the summer months and has become a highlight for both locals and tourists alike.
Discover the modern aspects of Jerash by taking a tour of the city’s contemporary sites. Jerash is not just about ancient ruins; it’s also home to a thriving modern city. Visitors can explore local markets, traditional coffee shops, and eateries where they can try local delicacies like falafel, hummus, and mansaf. Don't miss the chance to interact with the friendly locals and perhaps pick up some Arabic phrases. The city also boasts beautiful mosques and churches, showcasing the religious and cultural diversity of the region. A visit to the modern part of Jerash offers a stark contrast to the ancient ruins and provides insight into the daily lives of current residents of this historic region.
No visit to Jerash is complete without spending some time at the local bazaars. The bazaars around the ruins offer a range of souvenirs, including Jordanian handicrafts like beautifully embroidered fabrics, ceramics, jewelry, and bottles of colored sand art depicting the stunning landscapes of Jordan. Here, you can practice your bargaining skills with the friendly vendors and bring home a piece of Jordanian culture. The market is a lively and colorful place where you can observe the local way of life and enjoy the bustling atmosphere. You might also find local traders selling spices and herbs, which can make for delightful culinary souvenirs or gifts.
For a more hands-on cultural experience, participating in a culinary workshop can be an enriching activity. These workshops typically involve learning to prepare traditional Jordanian dishes guided by local chefs or home cooks. You’ll get to work with fresh, local ingredients and learn about the spices and techniques that give Jordanian food its unique flavors. At the end of the workshop, you'll enjoy the fruits of your labor by sitting down to a delicious meal that you helped create. This activity is not only a delightful gastronomic experience but also offers a wonderful opportunity to connect with local culture and learn about the country's culinary traditions.
