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Jerash, often referred to as the Pompeii of the East, is one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. Located about 50 kilometers north of Amman, this historical site offers travelers an opportunity to walk through time, exploring well-preserved Roman ruins, grand temples, colonnaded streets, and amphitheaters. With a rich history dating back more than 6,500 years, Jerash is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts, archaeology lovers, and anyone fascinated by ancient civilizations.
Built in 129 AD to honor Emperor Hadrian’s visit to Jerash, this impressive gateway was once the main entrance to the city. The towering arch stands at 13 meters high, giving visitors a glimpse of the grandeur of ancient Jerash.
A former Roman chariot racing arena, the Hippodrome could accommodate up to 15,000 spectators. Today, visitors can witness reenactments of Roman chariot races and gladiator performances.
The Oval Plaza is a large, open space surrounded by 56 Ionic columns, serving as a gathering place in ancient times. This architectural masterpiece is one of the most photographed sites in Jerash.
Stretching 800 meters, this well-preserved Roman road still shows visible chariot wheel marks, proving its ancient usage.
Jerash has two Roman theaters:
Dedicated to Artemis, the Greek goddess of hunting and fertility, this temple stands on a hill, offering a spectacular view of Jerash. Its tall Corinthian columns still stand as a testament to Roman engineering.
A beautifully preserved Roman fountain, adorned with marble and carvings, once serving as a public water source.
Jerash was an important city during Byzantine rule, and several churches were built here. Many of them contain well-preserved mosaic floors showcasing biblical stories.
The best time to visit Jerash is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is pleasant for walking. Summer months can be very hot, while winters can be chilly and rainy.
Visitors can explore Jerash independently or as part of a guided tour. A Jerash day tour from Amman is one of the most popular choices. For those interested in Jordan’s history, multi-day tours covering Jerash, Petra, Wadi Rum, and the Dead Sea offer an immersive experience.
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Jerash is famous for being one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside of Italy. It features Hadrian’s Arch, the Oval Plaza, the Colonnaded Street, the Roman Theaters, and several well-preserved temples and churches.
Jerash is located 50 km north of Amman, about a 50-minute drive by car. It is one of the most popular day trips from Amman.
The best time to visit Jerash is during spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November) when the weather is cool and pleasant for walking. Summers can be very hot, and winters can be rainy.
The entrance fee to Jerash is 10 JD ($14 USD) per person. However, if you have the Jordan Pass, entry to Jerash is included for free.
Yes, many travelers combine a Jerash tour with a visit to Ajloun Castle, which is only 25 km away. Some tours also include Umm Qais, another historical site in Northern Jordan.
While Jerash can be explored independently, hiring a local guide can enhance your experience by providing historical insights about the ruins. Guided tours are available at the entrance for an additional fee.
Yes, but Jerash is closer to Amman. If coming from Petra or the Dead Sea, it is recommended to stay overnight in Amman before visiting Jerash.
Yes, there are several restaurants near Jerash, including:
Yes! Jerash is a great historical destination for families. Kids will enjoy exploring the ruins, climbing ancient stairways, and watching the Roman chariot reenactments at the Hippodrome.
Yes, photography is allowed throughout Jerash. The Oval Plaza, the Temple of Artemis, and the Colonnaded Street are some of the best photo spots.
There are several Jerash tour options, including:
The Jerash Festival of Culture & Arts is an annual event held in July-August, featuring traditional Jordanian music, dance, poetry, and theatrical performances.
Some areas of Jerash, like the Oval Plaza and Colonnaded Street, are accessible, but many parts involve uneven terrain and stairs, making full exploration difficult for wheelchair users.
Most visitors spend 2-3 hours exploring Jerash, but history lovers may want to spend a half-day or longer to see everything in detail.