Jerash Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of the Middle East, Jordan is a country that captivates visitors with its breathtaking landscapes, ancient history, and warm hospitality. Among the many treasures it holds, the city of Jerash stands out as a testament to the grandeur of antiquity and the crossroads of civilizations.

Jerash, located in the Jarash province, is one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Known as the "Pompeii of the East" for its extraordinary state of preservation, the city offers a unique glimpse into the past with its colonnaded streets, soaring hilltop temples, handsome theaters, and spacious public squares.

Upon entering through the imposing Hadrian's Arch, built to commemorate Emperor Hadrian's visit, visitors are transported back to a time when Jerash was a bustling metropolis within the Roman Empire. The city's forum, an oval-shaped plaza surrounded by a colonnade of Ionic columns, serves as a centerpiece from which the ancient city's life once radiated.

The Jerash Archaeological Museum within the site provides context to the ruins, displaying artifacts that range from the Bronze Age to the Islamic era. These historical treasures offer insights into the daily life and customs of the civilizations that once thrived here.

One of the most remarkable structures in Jerash is the South Theater, which could seat more than 3,000 spectators. Even today, it is a venue for performances during the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, an annual event that revives the city's legacy as a cultural hub.

Aside from its historical significance, Jerash is surrounded by a landscape of fertile, green hills, making it a refreshing retreat from the arid regions of the country. The mild climate and the proximity to Jordan's capital, Amman, make it an accessible and appealing destination for both tourists and locals.

As visitors stroll the ancient city's streets, they can almost hear the echoes of chariots and the chatter of merchants that once filled the air. Jerash is more than just an archaeological site; it's a bridge to an era that shaped the world as we know it.

Jordan's culinary offerings are also on display in Jerash, where local restaurants serve traditional Middle Eastern dishes such as mansaf, made with lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur.