Jordan is a travellers dream destination. The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan’s ancient and natural wonders are as enchanting as its people. It truly is the jewel of the Middle East. Jordan is surrounded by countries that are going through conflict, but Jordan is a safe space for travellers. Here are our top 5 things to do this in this fantastic part of the world.
Petra
Petra is truly one of the great Ancient Cities of the world. It lies half-hidden in a wind-blown landscape in southern Jordan, is one of the world’s most treasured Unesco Heritage Sites. It dates back more than 2000 years, the 3rd century to be precise. It was built by the Nabataeans, who carved palaces, temples, tombs, storerooms and stables from the soft stone cliffs. It was an important part of the Silk Route to China and India but was abandoned at some time around the 12th century. It was only known to locals for hundreds of years until it was rediscovered by the West in 1812.
Citadel
The area known as the Citadel sits on the highest hill in Amman, Jebel Al Qala’a (about 850m above sea level), and is the site of ancient Rabbath-Ammon. A visit here is a truly magnificent one – it’s surrounded by a 1700m-long wall and has been occupied since the Bronze Age, the wall has been rebuilt many times during the Bronze and Iron Ages, as well as the Roman, Byzantine and Umayyad periods. With so much to see you need to make sure you take extra time to check out the Citadel’s most striking sights – the Temple of Hercules and the Ummayad Palace.
Dead Sea
At 431m below sea level – the Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth – the azure blue waters are quite the spectacle. The Dead Sea truly is filled with salt and you can float until your heart’s content. The Dead Sea is also an easy day trip from Amman or Madaba. Dead Sea salts and minerals have long been exploited for their skin-friendly properties.
Jerash
History buffs head this way. Jerash is the most well-preserved ancient Roman city outside of Italy. Jerash dates back 6500 years and was an important city on Rome’s ancient trade route. Thanks to the dry climate, it laid untouched for centuries to understand waiting to be explored. Excavations began in 1925 and today it is one of the greatest examples of Roman architecture outside of Rome.
Amman
Amman is a relatively new city, mostly built in the 20th century it is a thriving metropolis that is at odds with the historic country. Here you can enjoy a shisha at a local bar, shop at one of the many markets and be sure to visit The King Abdullah Mosque.
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