|
Jordan has a range of attractions to offer the tourist including the incomparable ancient city of Petra, the Dead Sea and a range of archaeological treasures and castles. Jordan is also a worthwhile destination for those who are interested in wildlife.
Amman was a village when it became capital of Jordan in 1921. Today it is a large city set in mountain terrain. Although this is a modern city it was also the Rabath-Ammon of the old testament and the Roman Philadelphia. At the centre of the city is a 6,000 seat Roman amphitheatre overlooked by an ancient citadel.
Although a modern city, many visitors use Amman as their base for excursions.
Petra ‘the rose red city’ is the real must see in Jordan, and one of the great life experiences for many who have been there. The Nabatean city is approached by horse or foot via the ‘siq’ a long narrow passage through towering cliffs. It was a setting that facilitated the defence of the city and that left its ruins unknown except to the local people until the city was rediscovered in 1812.
The best known monument, the Treasury, dominates the access to the city from the siq and is instantly recognisable for its use at the end of the film ‘Indiana Jones and the last Crusade’. This is one of many buildings and tombs carved from the rock of the cliff sides, amidst spectacular mountain scenery.
To see everything requires a whole week, but even a day trip provides an unforgettable experience. En route it is possible to stop off at one of the Crusader castles of Shobak or Kerak. For those interested in wildlife, a visit to the nature reserve at Dana is recommended.
Further south is the breathtaking desert scenery at Wadi Rhum - Admired by T E Lawrence ‘of Arabia’ and featured in the film. This can provide a location for a range of adventure activities including camel riding, hiking and climbing.
Further south is the seaside resort of Aqeba.
The Dead Sea is another popular destination. Swimming in this salty lake it is impossible to sink! Attractions nearby include the mosaics at Madaba and Mount Nebu, believed to be the death and burial place of Moses. The Mujib Nature Reserve is close to the Dead Sea
East of Amman lie a series of desert castles of varying sizes before reaching Azreq castle, a fortress since about 300 BC, which also has connections with Lawrence. The castles can be seen during a day trip from Amman, though wildlife enthusiasts should stay longer to visit the Azreq wetlands (known for migrating birds) and the Shaumari Nature Reserves.
North of Amman are two sites of particular interest, the Roman city of Jerash, which can be visited from Amman or en route to Syria and the Mediaeval castle at Ajloun.
|
