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A Day in Amman"

A Day in Amman"

"A Day in "

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Römisches Theater "Working Ancient Theater"

A second-century colossus that was the centerpiece of ancient Philadelphia continues to dominate modern-day Amman’s center. The Roman Theater, with its impressive cascade of cavea or seating enclosure, the traditional orchestra, and the saenae fons or the backdrop, represents the enduring grandeur of a bygone time. Built in the second Century, by Bernard Gagnon Amman’s Roman theater was designed with great forethought like several other structures during its time. One of its many interesting features is its ability to keep sunlight at bay - a result obtained due to its northerly orientation that ensured spectators’ comfort. At its peak, the theater was able to accommodate up to 6,000 people in its vast complex. Today, the theater promises a stirring glimpse into history through two of its museums – the Museum of Popular Tradition and the Jordan Folklore Museum - that flank the theater’s entrances. It also continues to be a key venue for several city soirees and events, from the bi-annual Al- Balad Music Festival, to the Amman International Book Fair.

historical-landmark-426.business.site/ Al-Hashemi Street, The Hashemite Plaza, Amman

Jordan Museum of Popular Traditions "Local Flavor"

This museum showcases the traditions of the local people from current times to bygone eras. Much of the museum is made of mannequins in various local dresses. Placards give short explanations about the exhibits, and off to one side is artwork and tile work from the region. The beautiful garments are enhanced by jewelry, and there truly are some gorgeous costumes on display. Admission to the museum is included in the entrance free to the Roman Theater.

Hashemi Street, Roman Theater, Amman

Jordan Archaeological Museum "Archaeological Jewels of Jordan"

One of the best museums in Amman, entrance to the Jordan Archaeological Museum is included in the fee to the entrance to the Citadel. Perched on a hill overlooking the city, this museum is small, but crammed with artifacts from all eras of human settlement. From Roman busts to skulls to parts of the Dead Sea Scrolls to jewelry and jars, by archer10 (Dennis) everything here is of the highest quality, and there are numerous placards to help you to decode exactly what it is you are looking at. One of the best parts about this museum is that although the objects contained in the museum are rare and valuable, many things are out in the open and not behind glass, an experience that is all too uncommon these days.

Hashem Al-Kheir Street, Amman Citadel, Amman Temple of Hercules "Ancient Roman Temple"

Towering on one of the jebels of the Amman Citadel, the Temple of Hercules is one of the most historically significant landmarks of the city. Steeped in Roman history, the temple was built when Roman General Geminius Marcianus ruled the Province of Arabia and was perhaps left incomplete during construction. The remnants of its portico’s six columns, by Mhd.magayda with a height of 33 feet (10 meters), are proof of the temple’s monumental proportions. Remains of an unfinished statue of Hercules were found on the site. Made of stone, the statue’s enormous debris of three fingers and an elbow helped archaeologists to determine that the statue was at least 39 feet (12 meters) in height. Destructed by an earthquake, the statue and the temple are one of the most important Roman relics in Jordan.

Hashem Al-Kheir Street, Amman Citadel, Amman

Umayyad Palace "Regal Ruins"

Nestled in the Citadel of Amman, the Umayyad Palace is one of the most monumental complexes in the city. Built around 724 and 743 CE during the rule of Caliph Hisham, the palace is a defining Umayyad landmark in Amman. While the palace doesn’t retain its original opulence, the beige edifice crowned with a grey-colored dome still exudes past glory of the by Imam Khairul Annas Umayyads. Influences of Byzantine architecture are evident in interiors as well as exteriors. The assembly hall is the most well preserved among other structures of the complex, with old stucco designs still visible today. The remains in this palatial complex comprise of a bathhouse, residential chambers, and even a throne room. Conquered later by Mamluks and Abbasids, the magnificent palace is an architectural wonder boasting of the Umayyad power.

Off Hashem Al-Kheir Street, The Citadel, Amman

Amman Citadel "Treasures from the Past"

The Citadel is a complex that overlooks downtown Amman, located at the very top of Amman's highest hill. It has been here that people have made their homes for thousands of years, and there are several artifacts that attest to this. Located on this hill is the National Archaeological Museum, the Temple of Hercules, and the Umayyad Palace. The towering pillars, by dimitrisvetsikas1969 ruins, and museum filled with antiquities offer a fascinating look at the history of the region. One could easily spend several hours here, but it is best to avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day, as there is little shade.

+962 6 463 8795 146 Al-Malek Ali bin al-Hussein Street, Amman

Souk Sukkr "Alleyway Delights"

Better even than the hustle of bustle of the rest of downtown is the market known as Souk Sukkr. Here stands and stalls are set up selling everything from food to household appliances. You can get fresh fruit and spices here, and as you walk by, vendors call out the prices of their goods. Hidden down alleyways, wandering is the best way to explore this market. Although not too huge, there is a great variety of stalls and when you reach the end of any of the alleys, simply take a turn and chances are you will reemerge in the souk again soon. The souk really comes to life in the evening, so hold off on vising during the day unless there is an item that you require.

Downtown, Amman

Darat Al Funun "Sweet Spot"

Darat al-Funun is a pleasant little hideaway in the rolling hills of Amman. The complex in actuality is made up of three separate "homes," 1920s villas completely restored for use as well as a 6th century Byzantine church. Each one has changing exhibitions which showcase contemporary Arab art. From video to photographs to installations to sculpture, Darat al- Funun plays a vital role in the arts community, and has lectures, performances, and other enriching experiences for the public. Entrance is free and has been ever since Darat al-Funun opened in 1993. The entire experience promotes a sense of calm, and these remarkable villas are the perfect place to experience high quality art. There is also a fabulous sun- soaked library with a host of books in both and English.

+962 6 4643251 www.daratalfunun.org/ darat@thekhalidshomanfo Nimer bin Adwan Street, undation.org Amman

Raghadan Flagpole "Monumental Flagpole"

It is not often that a flagpole is celebrated more than the flag the pole supports, but the Raghadan Flagpole at the Royal Court is one such pole. One of the tallest free-standing flagpoles in the world (there is some debate as to which qualifies as the tallest), this flagpole and flag can be seen from numerous points around the city. With the proud Jordanian flag by David Bjorgen whipping in the wind, it is truly a sight to behold.

Royal Court, Amman

Wild Jordan Cafe "Environmental Awareness"

The Wild Jordan Cafe is a gem of a spot just off Rainbow Street. Its modern facade overlooks the soaring hills of Amman, and the view is great during the day or at night. Upon entering, to your left is a gift store featuring local products and there is also information about the nature preserves in Jordan. For those wishing to know more about this splendid country, there are a host of books and other publications which are fun to flip through and give ideas for what places you should visit while in Amman. The cafe has a great choice of organic meals, while the restaurant which opens at 6pm affords the best views of the whole complex and has equally delicious choices. Try the Avocado Chicken Sandwich or the soup of the day. Everything is fresh, tasty, and prepared and served with aplomb.

+962 6 4633542 Othman bin Afan Street, 1st Circle, Amman Dar Al-Anda Art Gallery "All Arts"

More than just exhibits of fine art, Dar al-Anda aims to promote all visual and auditory art. Hosting concerts, literary events, as well as gallery exhibitions, there is always something going on at Dar al-Anda. A large balcony has panoramic views of the city, and if you see something there that you just cannot stop thinking about later on, you can even buy some by CarlottaSilvestrini of the work online!

+962 6 462 95 99 [email protected] Dhirar Bin Al-azwar Street, Amman

Jordan River Foundation "Worthy Cause"

The Jordan River Foundation aims to help improve the lives of all Jordanians. In doing so, it focuses on giving women the opportunity to work outside of the home and to learn about business practices. This non- profit was started in 1995 by Queen Rania and by educating women and their families, the foundation helps to combat poverty, child abuse and helps to empower women. At this main showroom are numerous crafts and pieces which can complement the look of your home. All pieces are individually made and many have roots in traditional skills. The facility itself is a beautiful little oasis of greenery and peace: wander in and take a look at the beautiful products on display!

+962 6 4613081 www.jordanriver.jo [email protected] Rainbow Street, Amman

9th Sha'ban Street "Pet Store Row"

Although visiting Amman might not be the perfect time to find a new pet, it is hard to resist when you visit 9th Sha'ban Street. Here there is a collection of pet stores that all seem to have an assortment of animals cleverer and cuter than the last. Unlike many other countries, pet stores in Jordan allow you to pick up and hold the animals, but make sure you ask first. Anything from macaws to ducklings can be found here, and animals can definitely help relieve some of the stresses of traveling. By far the largest number of animals are both fish and birds, but ducks, rabbits, kittens, guinea pigs, and gerbils can also be found. In case you are traveling with a pet, this is a great place to stock up on pet supplies.

9th Sha'ban Street, 1st Circle, Amman

Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts "Worldly Art"

Although the Royal Society of Fine Arts was not founded until 1979, the society immediately founded the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts in 1980 and this museum has been delighting visitors ever since. The complex is comprised of two different buildings facing each other around an elliptical street with a pleasant park in the middle. One ticket grants the visitor entrance to both buildings for a cost of JD5. One building is more modern, open and airy, while the other has a cozier feel. Both house splendid examples of artwork from the developing world, a point of view that many visitors will not have seen before. Although there is a large permanent collection, the Jordan National Gallery of Fine Arts also puts on temporary exhibitions to ensure that visitors are constantly exposed to new movements in the art community. Besides the artwork itself, there is a cafe and library in the gallery, and the library is such that art enthusiasts could sit and read for hours. This is truly a must-see when you visit Amman. The museum stays open until 7 pm in the summer.

+962 6 463 0128 www.nationalgallery.org/ [email protected] Hosni Fareez Street, Amman

Haya Cultural Center "Connect with Community"

The Haya Cultural Center which opened in 1976, is one of the better cultural centers in Amman and even all of Jordan. The Center contains a library filled, a computer lab with free access to all, a playground, museums about the environment and science, a performance space featuring numerous plays and concerts every year, and best of all, a by ginnerobot planetarium! Aimed at making learning a more interactive and fun experience, the Haya Cultural Center is a great place to visit whether you are young or just young at heart!

+962 6 566 51 95 Ilya Abu Madhi, Amman

Royal Automobile Museum "History through Cars"

The Royal Automobile Museum is a car lover's delight. Around every corner, lies an expensive car even more fabulous than the one before, all owned by King Hussein. Many of the cars are placed in settings that recreate the era or the situation in which it they were used: cars used in the Jordan Rally are suitably dusty cars and the car that visited Petra is in by Ankur P front of a giant photograph. Accompanying written explanations and video help also to give context which keeps the museum interesting for the casual car user. Some of the cars are even set in a reconstructed village with mannequins at the wheel. So if you are interested in rare or expensive cars, or both, this is a great place to feast on some good car eye- candy.

+962 6 541 1392 [email protected] Saeed Kheir Street, Amman

Children's Museum "For the Kids"

The first time you visit the Children's Museum your kids will be begging you to take them back as soon as you leave! This kid-centric space has over 150 ways to interact and learn. Indoor and outdoor play spaces help children explore people, the environment and technology. Examples of exhibits include themes of recycling, stars, dinosaurs, super heroes, and all kinds of other things to hold a child's attention and to enrich their world. This is a great place to hold a birthday party, and there is a special room which can be reserved. A gift store, restaurant, gardens, and children's library round out the facilities at the museum. Check the calendar regularly for scheduled programs.

+962 6 5411 479 www.cmj.jo [email protected] Al Hussein National Park, Amman

Berg Nebo "Moses' Mount"

Steeped in Biblical stories and riddled with religious relics, Mount Nebo is a spectacular vantage point. The mount from where Moses was able to see the Promised Land, Mount Nebo lies in Western Jordan offering stunning views of the surroundings. From the Dead Sea, River Jordan to the city of Jerusalem, Mount Nebo is a window into the breathtaking by Berthold Werner canvas of nature. Although its authenticity to Biblical origins has been debated, the top of the mountain shelters the ruins of a church and a monastery. Embellished with Byzantine mosaics, it is believed that the church was built to pay homage to Moses in the 4th Century. Housing the Brazen Serpent Monument, the mount has often been revered and considered a site of pilgrimage.

Mount Nebo, Amman

Jerash "Ancient City"

Located about an hour outside of Amman, Jerash is one of the best preserved Roman cities in the Middle East. Civilizations flourished under the influence of several different ruling empires here, from Romans who referred to it as Gerasa, to the Arabs who bestowed upon it the modern- day name Jerash. Some of the more spectacular ruins include Hadrian's by Bernard Gagnon Arch, a monumental arch to commemorate a visit from Emperor Hadrian, a Hippodrome (giant arena), and the Oval plaza. Spanning its vast ancient landscape are also preserved vestiges of colonnaded streets, communal baths, and a towering nymphaeum. In the summers, the ruins burn hot under the gaze of the sun, requiring visitors who tour the ruins to be well- equipped for the heat.

+962 2 6351272 Jerash, Amman

Ajloun Schloss

"Ayyubid Fortress"

Perched on a hilltop of Mount Ajlun, the Ajloun Castle is the defining landmark of the city of Ajloun. Overlooking three valleys which eventually become a part of the Jordan Valley, the castle was built in the 12th Century on the location of a former monastery. Revamped into a military base for gaining control of the tribes, the fortress also served as by Hiking in Jordan website an important center along the route of Damascus to Egypt. Revamped by and guidebook Ayyubid General Izz al-din Usama, the castle witnessed several political shifts from Mamluks to Mongols. Solidifying Ayyubid architectural prowess, the castle is home to one of the oldest mosques in the country. A significant hub of Islamic studies, the castle also housed a madrassa or a school. Withstanding time’s caprices, the sturdy walls of the castle have proven to be of great help during the Crusader invasions. With the moat, drawbridge and fortifications still relatively intact, this castle is a popular tourist attraction.

www.visitjordan.com/default.aspx?tabid=169 Ajloun, Amman

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