Tourist Attractions in Jordan

The Jordanian capital, Amman, is located in the northwestern part of Jordan, about “90” km from Jerusalem. Modern Amman stands on roughly the same site as the ancient city of “Ammon.” One of its ancient names was “Philadelphia,” which meant “brotherly love” in Roman times. Throughout its long history, Amman has been ruled by the Assyrians, Chaldeans, Hyksos, Persians, Greeks, and Romans, all of whom left behind numerous historical sites, most notably the “Roman Amphitheater,” which can accommodate about 5,000 spectators.

Jerash:

It is a city of Roman ruins, with a rich cultural heritage, and one of the few ancient cities in the world that has preserved all its landmarks to this day. The city’s squares, streets, columns, and ancient theaters still bear witness to the Greek and Roman eras in the “Pompeii of the East”—ancient Gracia… the beautiful Jordanian city of Jerash.

Ajloun:

The city of Ajloun is located north of the capital, Amman, and is famous for its historic castle, known as Al-Rabdh Castle. This castle attracts large numbers of visitors due to its historical significance. It was built by one of Saladin’s commanders between 1148 and 1185 CE to counter the expansion of the Crusaders and to safeguard the trade routes to Damascus and northern Syria.

The Dead Sea:

To the southwest of Amman, 55 kilometers away, lies the lowest point on Earth relative to sea level: the Dead Sea. Having endured successive historical eras, it has become one of the most attractive destinations for tourists seeking warmth in the winter, breathtaking natural beauty, and the uniqueness embodied in a sea devoid of life due to its high salt concentration—yet its salty waters offer a cure for many ailments, and people have been seeking healing in these waters for thousands of years. Furthermore, Dead Sea salts serve as raw materials for the production of potash, therapeutic bath salts, and cosmetic products marketed around the world.

Al-Batra:

Petra is considered one of Jordan’s most famous archaeological sites. It is a city carved into the rock, founded by the Arab Nabataeans more than two thousand years ago to serve as the capital of their kingdom, and it has stood as a testament to the human feat of creating cities from the very heart of mountains. Visitors and readers know it as the “Rose City,” a name derived from the color of the rocks that form its unique architecture. Resembling a fortress, Petra is located 262 kilometers south of Amman and is one of Jordan’s most important tourist attractions, drawing crowds of tourists from all corners of the globe, It attracts those seeking insights into human history and those wishing to relive bygone eras on a journey that blends pleasure with knowledge.

The obstacle:

On the edge of the cliffs, the sun and the water meet against the backdrop of breathtaking natural scenery in the city of Aqaba—a city of golden sand, towering palm trees, and crystal-clear waters in the Gulf that embraces Jordan’s port and seaport, as well as the most beautiful winter resorts on the shores of the Red Sea.The city’s history dates back to the Edomite era, when it was known as “Ayla.” It was later ruled by the Nabataeans and the Romans. Aqaba’s importance rose during the Byzantine era in the 4th century CE, when it became a major religious center, and it became an Islamic city following the Battle of Tabuk in 630 CE. It subsequently came under the rule of the Mamluks, the Crusaders, and the Ottomans, in that order. The Mamluks built Aqaba Fortress there in 1320 CE, which Sharif Hussein bin Ali used as his base of operations to fight the Ottomans.
Aqaba is located at the head of the Gulf of Aqaba, 360 km south of Amman. There, visitors can enjoy the amazing marine world and pursue hobbies such as swimming, water skiing, fishing, sailing, or any other type of water sport.Wadi Rum:

Between dream and reality, tourists spend their time in Wadi Rum—also known as the Valley of the Moon due to the resemblance of its landscape to that of the moon—and amid the towering mountains that rise in the region, visitors can experience the serenity of nature in the Arabian Desert, especially in the spring.

The Wadi Rum region is located approximately 40 km from the city of Aqaba. It is home to the highest mountain peaks in southern Levant, and the Rum Mountains are considered an exciting challenge for climbing enthusiasts. Visitors can also hike along the valley’s trails, venture deep into its spacious ravines, go on group camel rides, and camp in the valley at a special campsite equipped with everything needed for a comfortable overnight stay. Visitors are also drawn to four-wheel-drive excursions, and hot-air balloon and airship shows are held in this area, adorning the sky with their bright colors.

Wadi Rum:

Hollywood uses Wadi Rum—“Valley of the Moon”—to film scenes reminiscent of Mars. The location itself transports you into a fantasy world or an Arabian tale. It is home to nomadic Bedouin tribes and a region of dazzling charm that offers you complete tranquility as you gaze at its sands, stars, and sun, immersing you in a unique experience quite different from the pleasures of Amman, the capital. The Nabataeans inhabited this region in ancient times, and now it offers you the chance to immerse yourself in vast natural landscapes stretching to the horizon! Enjoy the serenity of the desert, which soothes the soul and clears the mind. Wadi Rum awaits you to discover its captivating splendor!

 Madaba