Zarqa: An Ancient City Steeped in History and Culture
Located in the eastern part of Jordan, the city of Zarqa has a long and fascinating history. As the capital of Zarqa Governorate, this ancient city has been home to many civilizations over the centuries, and its culture and traditions have been preserved to this day. From its ancient ruins to its vibrant nightlife, Zarqa is an interesting destination for travelers looking for an authentic Middle Eastern experience. Here’s what you need to know about this ancient Jordanian city.
A Brief History of Zarqa
Zarqa has been inhabited since the Bronze Age and has been referenced in the Bible and other ancient texts. The city was first known as Jabbok and was an important settlement in the Ammonite kingdom. It later became part of the Roman Empire, then the Umayyad and Abbasid Caliphates. During the 13th century, the city was ruled by the Ayyubid dynasty, before becoming part of the Ottoman Empire and then the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
What to See in Zarqa
Zarqa is a city steeped in history and culture, and there are plenty of attractions to explore. The city is home to several ancient ruins, including the Citadel of Jabbok, which is believed to be the site of the Biblical struggle between Jacob and the angel. Other points of interest include the ruins of the Umayyad Castle, the Ayyubid Castle, and the Ottoman Fort.
The city is also home to several interesting museums, including the Zarqa Museum, which houses artifacts from the city’s past. Other museums include the Zarqa Archaeological Museum and the Zarqa Children’s Museum.
The city also has two mosques, the Great Mosque of Zarqa and the Mosque of Bilal bin Rabah. The Great Mosque is the oldest mosque in the city and is believed to have been built in the 8th century.
Culture and Shopping in Zarqa
Zarqa is a city with a vibrant culture and a bustling nightlife. The city is home to several traditional markets, where visitors can find all sorts of goods from spices to jewelry. There are also several shopping malls in the city, where visitors can find modern clothes and electronics.
For those looking for an authentic cultural experience, Zarqa offers a variety of traditional restaurants and cafes. There are also several bars and nightclubs in the city, where visitors can enjoy a night out.
Getting to Zarqa
Zarqa is located about 25 kilometers northeast of the Jordanian capital, Amman. The city is easily accessible by car from Amman, and there is also a regular bus service between the two cities. There is also an international airport in Zarqa, which is served by several domestic and international airlines.
Whether you’re looking for a taste of history, culture, or nightlife, Zarqa is an interesting destination for travelers. With its ancient ruins, vibrant markets, and vibrant nightlife, the city has something to offer everyone.