Amman, Jordan
Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a fascinating city of contrasts – a unique blend of old and new, situated on a hilly area between the desert and the fertile Jordan Valley. In the commercial heart of the city, ultra-modern buildings, hotels, restaurants, art galleries and boutiques rub shoulders comfortably with traditional coffee shops and tiny artisan workshops. Amman’s neighborhoods are diverse and range in cultural and historical context from the hustle and bustle of the downtown markets, to the art galleries of Jabalal-Luwaybidah and the modern shopping district of al-ʻAbdali.
The citadel
If a journey through history is what you’re looking for then the best place to start would be the Citadel. Situated atop a hill, it gives visitors a glimpse into the evolution of Amman, while providing stunning views of downtown Amman. Among the sites you can’t afford to miss at the Citadel are the Umayyad Palace complex, the Temple of Hercules and the Byzantine Church.
Nymphaeum
Built in 191AD., it was once a large two-story complex with fountains, mosaics, stone carvings and possibly a 600 square meter swimming pool.
The King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque
The King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque, named after the late King, is the largest mosque in the Kingdom. Its architecture reflects the Umayyad style prevalent in several sites in Jordan.
King Abdullah I Mosque
Built as a memorial by the Late King Hussein to his grandfather, the distinguished blue-domed mosque can host up to 7000 worshippers inside, and another 3000 in the courtyard area.
The Jordan Museum
The Jordan Museum is located in the dynamic new downtown area of Ras al-ʻAyn. Presenting the historical and cultural heritage of Jordan in a series of beautifully designed galleries. The Jordan Museum serves as a comprehensive national center for learning and knowledge that reflects Jordan’s history and culture, while presenting the Kingdom’s historic, antique and heritage property as part of the ongoing story of Jordan’s past, present, and future.
The Royal Automobile Museum
The Royal Automobile Museum was founded in 2003 under the patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah II. The Royal Automobile Museum showcases an important part of Jordan's political history from an interesting perspective. The exhibits also reflect the history of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan through cars from the reign of King Abdullah I, to the reign of King Abdullah II. More recently, it has included many non-Jordanian vehicles and bikes, such as a 19th-century bike, a Bugatti and other rare vehicles. One of the most important items of the museum is the Lincoln Cabri convertible, the 1952 model, which was used by late King Hussein Bin Talal during his studies in England, and also during his crowning ceremony in May 1953.
The Roman Theater
The restored Roman Theater, which dates back to the 2nd century AD, is built into three sides of the hillside, it seats around 6000 people and is still used for performances and events today.
Iraq Al-Amir
Located southwest of Amman, ʻIraq al-ʼAmir is famous for its olive trees and hillside caves that date back to the Chalcolithic Age. Another place to keep an eye out while in the area is Qasr al-ʻAbd, one of the very few examples of pre-Roman architecture in Jordan.
Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street is one of the oldest streets in Amman, and has become a hub for local and international visitors. Lined with cafes, restaurants and a few art galleries sprinkled here and there, the street is a must visit location in Amman for shopping, a night out, or a simple meal.