A Day in Amman"
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"A Day in Amman" Realizzata per : Cityseeker 20 Posizioni indicati Teatro romano "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 Jordan 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 Arabic 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.