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AMMAN
- Known in history at Rabbath Ammom and Philadelphia, Amman is a
friendly hospitable city. The major sites of the city include the
Citadel, high above the city with an excellent panoramic view. Visit
the ancient Roman Theater located in the old downtown area. It is
the most obvious and impressive remnant of Philadelphia. , built in
the 2nd century. A short walk from the amphitheatre
brings you to Amman’s old shopping district – don’t miss the gold
market. Stroll through the modern city - neighborhoods such as
Abdun and Shmeisani. The contrast between the old sections of Amman
and the new areas, with there modern shopping centers is amazing.
Business and the arts are thriving; Amman can be used as a base for
most of the touring in the northern half of Jordan.
JERASH
- The ancient city of Jerash is remarkable for its unbroken chain of
human occupation. Located in the hills of Biblical Gilead, there are
uncountable remains from past civilizations. Today, it is
acknowledged as one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in
the world. Jerash was a member of the Decapolis, a dynamic
commercial league of 10 Greco-Roman cities. Today you can walk
beneath Hadrian's Triumphal Arch, the four gates, and make your way
down the Street of Columns, the Roman Cardo. Step over the tracks of
the Roman chariots shells still very visible in the pavements. If
you really want to "soak up local culture", don't miss the
spectacular Jerash Music Festival, held here every July. Popular
singers from the Arab world attract thousands of young people for an
evening you'll never forget.
AJLOUN -
Only a short ride from Jerash, visit the Castle of Ajloun at Qala'at
Ar Rabad. It was built in 1184 by the nephew of Saladin. From its
hilltop position, the castle protected the routes between the south
of Jordan and Syria.
DEAD SEA -
The Eastern banks of the Dead Sea are not only spectacularly
beautiful, but is a place to capture some peace, quiet and
relaxation. There are one or two simple hotels, plus the five star
Marriott and Movenpick. . If you are looking for a place to splurge,
this is one of the places to do so. The hotel spas are amazing,
special massages, a beautiful pool, not to mention the rejuvenating
waters of the Dead Sea.
MADABA -
A short drive out of
Amman brings you to the city of Mosaics. The main site of the city
is located inside the Greek Orthodox church of St. George. It is an
unforgettable vivid sixth century Byzantine mosaic map of the entire
middle east - from the south of Cairo to the north of Syria.
Composed of over two million pieces of colored stone, the map
depicts hills, valleys, villages and towns. Follow the Nile River,
to the Sinai, to Ashkelon, Jerusalem and up to Damascus - all on
this map. |
