In the heart of the Middle East, backdrop to the rise and fall of many great civilizations, lies a living museum like few others. Jordan, a small country often overshadowed by its more prominent neighbors, holds within its borders an astonishing wealth of historical treasures that simply has to be experienced to be believed.
Ancient roots
Jordan's history is deeply rooted in antiquity. Long before the common era, it was inhabited by various ancient civilizations, including the Ammonites, Edomites, and Moabites. These ancient peoples left behind their own unique marks on the land, and while their empires have long since faded into history, their legacies endure.
One of the most iconic remnants of this period is the Amman Citadel, located in the heart of the capital city, Amman. This historic site boasts ruins dating back to the Bronze Age, and its strategic location has made it a center of power for countless generations. Walking through the Citadel, you can feel the weight of history in every stone and relic. It's a place where time itself seems to slow down, allowing you to connect with the ancient civilizations that once called this place home.
The Nabateans and Petra
In the 4th century BCE, the Nabateans, a nomadic Arab people, established their capital in what is now Jordan. Petra, their exquisite rose-red city carved into the cliffs, served as a major trading hub and is renowned for its breathtaking architecture and rock-cut tombs. The most famous of these structures is the Treasury (Al-Khazneh), a mesmerizing facade that has captured the imagination of travelers for centuries.
Exploring Petra is like stepping into a lost world. As you wind your way through the narrow Siq, a natural sandstone gorge, the anticipation builds until, suddenly, you catch your first glimpse of the Treasury, bathed in the warm glow of the sun. It's a moment that stays with you forever, a testament to the skill and artistry of the Nabateans who crafted this masterpiece two-and-a-half thousand years ago.
But Petra is more than just the Treasury. It's a sprawling archaeological wonderland with countless tombs, temples, and caves to explore. The Monastery (Ad Deir), a massive carved structure high in the mountains, offers a different perspective on the ingenuity of the Nabateans. And if you're feeling adventurous, don't miss the hike to the High Place of Sacrifice, where you'll be rewarded with sweeping views of the entire site.
Roman rule and Jerash
Jordan's swashbuckling historical narrative also includes a Roman chapter. The city of Jerash, once known as Gerasa, is an extraordinary example of Roman urban planning and architecture. Walking through its colonnaded streets and standing in its grand theaters will transport you back in time to when this city thrived as a crucial member of the Decapolis, a league of ten cities on the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire.
History truly comes alive in Jerash. You can almost hear the echoes of chariots racing through the ancient hippodrome and the cheers of spectators in the South Theater. The intricate details in the Temple of Artemis and the imposing presence of the Arch of Hadrian are a poignant reminder of the grandeur of Roman civilization in Jordan.
Byzantine and Islamic heritage
As the Roman Empire eventually declined, the Byzantine Empire filled the void. Jordan became a part of this Christian empire, and the period left a lasting legacy in the form of stunning mosaics. The town of Madaba is particularly famous for its ancient mosaic map of the Holy Land, housed in the Church of St. George. It is a unique glimpse into the geography and religious significance of the region during the 6th century.
As the Byzantine period gave way to the Islamic era, Jordan became an essential part of the Islamic Caliphate. Umayyad architecture, characterized by its grandeur and intricate design, can be observed in Jordan's desert castles, like Qasr Amra, Qasr Kharana, and Qasr al-Hallabat. These desert fortresses, scattered across the eastern desert, served various purposes, from military outposts to recreational retreats for the Umayyad rulers.
Crusader fortresses and Lawrence of Arabia
During the medieval period, Jordan played a pivotal role in the Crusades. Magnificent castles like Karak and Shobak still stand as imposing sentinels of that turbulent time. Karak Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the modern town of Al-Karak, is a massive fortress with a labyrinth of halls and chambers. Exploring its dark and narrow passages, you can't help but be transported back to the days when knights and warriors roamed these halls in a quest for control of the Holy Land.
Much more recently, T.E. Lawrence, known as Lawrence of Arabia, made his mark in Jordan during World War I. His exploits are remembered at various sites, including Wadi Rum, a vast desert wilderness of dramatic sandstone mountains and canyons. Lawrence's presence in Wadi Rum is still palpable, and the landscape itself feels like something out of a dream or a distant planet.
Modern Jordan
In 1946, Jordan gained independence from British administration, leading to the formation of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. Under the leadership of King Abdullah II, modern Jordan has embraced its rich heritage while forging ahead in various fields, including tourism, technology, and culture.
Jordan's commitment to preserving its historical sites is evident in the extensive restoration efforts undertaken by organizations like the Department of Antiquities. These efforts ensure that future generations can continue to explore the country's incredible history.
Experience it for yourself
For a small country, Jordan has a drastically oversized history. As you explore the ancient citadels, vibrant souks, and tranquil deserts of this remarkable country, you'll find that history is not just a collection of dusty artifacts and fading memories. In Jordan, history is a living, breathing entity, that you can touch, feel, and experience in every corner of this enchanting land.
Don’t delay – book a trip today. Check out our most popular Jordan itineraries here. Then speak to a Destination Expert about crafting the historical extravaganza of your dreams.
