Amman Jordan A Union Of History And Modernity
May 7, 2010 by Travel Guide Greg
Filed under Travel Guides
Amman offers a rich diversity of the old and the new as well as a fascinating fusion of ancient structures and modern architecture. If you want to step back in time without moving away from the convenience of modernity, the hilly capital of Jordan is a destination you should not miss.
I am always reminded of Indiana Jones when I think of Amman. Not really surprising because not far from the city is the Nabatean city of Petra where Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade was filmed.
Like the lingering themes of Indiana Jones, Amman is cloaked in an atmosphere of mystery and adventure. Perhaps it’s the great civilizations that laid claim to Amman hundreds and thousands of years ago or it could be the rustic charm and beauty that defines the White City that Amman is known for today.
A first glance of Amman will introduce the uninitiated eyes to silver skyscrapers, stylish buildings and vibrant commercial areas. But a closer look will lead to the discovery of low stone houses beside towering modern structures and traditional souqs (market) beside sprawling malls.
Amman is conveniently located in the center of renowned historical sites and ancient attractions that Jordan is famous for. Only 40 km away from the city is the Dead Sea, the saltiest body of water in the world and considered to have been the location of the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah depicted in the bible. Nearby is the carved city of Petra with its burial sites and water canals. Petra is also known as the red rose city attributed to the unique rock pigments of its structures.
Amman is also home to many notable and fascinating ancient architecture. It includes the ancient Church of the Apostles in Madaba, which is considered to be at least 3500 years old. There is also the magnificent Roman Amphitheater which once seated 5,000 people over 2,000 years ago. Now, the amphitheater is still utilized as an important venue for many of Jordan’s events.
If you just want to play the role of a tourist, proceed to the Aquaba where many tourists stay for the warm beach and the shopping that is uniquely Amman. Or, you can head off to the Amman Beach along the coast of the Dead Sea. Just before dusk, visit the peaks of Wadi Rum for a breathtaking panorama of the setting sun. If you fancy a spectacular birds eye view of the historical cities of Bethlehem and Jerusalem against the backdrop of the Dead Sea and the Jordan River, a visit to the peaks of Mount Nebo is also a recommended must. A trip to the National Archaeological Museum is also recommend, it’s where the Dead Sea scrolls are housed along with many other artifacts spanning a 200,000 year period.
The Dead Sea was lauded for the healing properties of its waters, but Amman has more to offer. Visitors with joint aches and muscle pains should not miss the beautiful springs of Hammamat Ma’in, which is famous for its therapeutic properties and healing powers.
A visit to Amman leads travelers to an exciting trail of historical discoveries, panoramic views and healing waters. Its many facets make it a rare destination gem for the curious traveler to discover.
