Experience Culture & History: Jerash

Jordan boasts an eclectic range of the new and the old, some sites like Jerash are mostly of the old, but Jerash is of two flavors, the natural and the man-made beauty.

Compare the following photo versus the one featured above, A fine example of ancient magnificence submerged in nature no matter the season.

Jerash, also known as “Pompeii of the East” is a city in the middle-northern parts of Jordan, inhabited since the Bronze Age, and a site boasting the finest Greco-Roman remains to be found outside of Rome. The vastness of the ancient city that still stands, and the range of architecture and buildings are absolutely phenomenal: a multitude of churches, several theaters, a hippodrome, an agora, a cathedral…all still standing!

This site is an absolute must visit for Jordanians and tourists alike, a visual and historical masterpiece, a radiant gem in the crown that is this country’s culture. There are signs giving explanations and the history behind each marvelous piece of architecture, with translations in Arabic, English and French- your knowledge will be truly enriched.

The sheer genius of the infrastructure, constructed by hand, with no technology is mind-boggling. It’s only second to Petra in that regard. Yet, Jerash is more than an archaeological site—it is also known for hosting the annual Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts. The festival features music, dance, theater, poetry, and art performances, with many events taking place inside the city’s ancient Roman theaters, creating a unique blend of history and modern culture. Many of the Arab world’s best artists come to perform on it’s prestigious amphitheater.

Although Jerash is considered one of the world’s best-preserved Roman provincial cities and visitors can walk along its original stone streets and explore remarkable structures such as the Oval Plaza, Hadrian’s Arch, the Temple of Artemis, and two large Roman theaters, many of which have survived for nearly 2,000 years, there’s one part that is contrary: The brilliance behind the pillars that were set up intentionally, placed just-so, in order that they would slightly sway or vibrate – an early warning device of earthquakes as legends told or simply to survive earth quake by being easier to re-stack after any movement, is awe-inspiring and the question of: “how did they get those heavy stones, that size, up there?!” will play in your thoughts again and again as you wander in wonder around the pristine site.

All that sightseeing will indeed leave visitors to the site hungry for some lunching. There are several restaurants within the general vicinity of Jerash (a bit pricey though). Or simply let us take you on one of our day trips that we perfectly balanced between Jerash, home cooked lunch included and the neighboring Ajloun, here’s a link to the trip Jerash, Ajloun, & Lunch at a Local Family.

Our travel tip to those going solo would be to visit Jerash early in the morning, before it is too crowded. This means you will finish just before lunchtime, so can grab a Falafel or Shwarma sandwich on the way, and make the drive to Amman for something more substantial. The city is under an hour’s drive away, and boasts a diverse range of restaurants, all offering different cuisines and prices.
This also allows for a free afternoon with which you could explore Amman, or relax as you like!

But, however you choose to do it is ultimately of secondary importance. What is of utmost precedence is that you go, full-stop; Jerash is too wonderful to miss.

For musings on beauty to be found in Jordan, inspired by a visit to Jerash, you can read a personal blog excerpt from Georgie here