| Jerash and Ajlun Castle --- 1 March 2006 |
From Amman we drove about 50km (30 miles) north to Jerash, an important city from about
300BC to around 700AD, after which it went into sharp decline.
Jerash is famous for its very extensive Roman ruins, most of which were built between
100AD and 300AD. The archaeological area is at least 1km (0.6 miles) across, with many of
the structures standing in good condition. Most notable is the gigantic Hadrian's Arch built
to honor the visit of Roman Emperor Hadrian in 129AD. There also are a few additional large
arches, several temples, column-bordered plazas, baths, paved roadways, etc. In addition to
the many standing structures we also saw many architectural components on the ground
awaiting installation. Truly a very large and impressive archaeological site!
300BC to around 700AD, after which it went into sharp decline.
Jerash is famous for its very extensive Roman ruins, most of which were built between
100AD and 300AD. The archaeological area is at least 1km (0.6 miles) across, with many of
the structures standing in good condition. Most notable is the gigantic Hadrian's Arch built
to honor the visit of Roman Emperor Hadrian in 129AD. There also are a few additional large
arches, several temples, column-bordered plazas, baths, paved roadways, etc. In addition to
the many standing structures we also saw many architectural components on the ground
awaiting installation. Truly a very large and impressive archaeological site!
Roman Forum, Jerash
Hadrian's Arch, Jerash, Jordan
Roman Amphitheater, Jerash, Jordan
Roman road, Jerash, Jordan
The Hippodrome, Jerash, Jordan
A Roman temple, Jerash
Then we drove to Ajlun Castle, about 10km (6 miles) west of Jerash. The castle was built in
the 12th century by the Moslem leader Saladin to help him drive the Crusaders from Jordan.
The castle is huge and extremely well preserved. A great place to visit.
the 12th century by the Moslem leader Saladin to help him drive the Crusaders from Jordan.
The castle is huge and extremely well preserved. A great place to visit.
Entrance to Ajlun Castle, Jordan
Ajlun Castle, Jordan
After visiting Ajlun Castle we drove for an hour back to Amman through generally dry and
barren country with occasional irrigated farms.
barren country with occasional irrigated farms.