Amman Citadel: An Architectural Beauty That Should Not Be Missed
Venture forth into the ancient city of Amman and the first thing you’ll likely notice is the towering Citadel overlooking the city. The remarkable Amman Citadel has stood for centuries, over 2,000 years, and is one of the most visited sites in Jordan. It is an architectural masterpiece with rich history and stunning views of the city.
What is the Amman Citadel?
The Amman Citadel, or Jabal al-Qala’a, is an ancient hilltop fortress that stands at the highest point of Amman. It is located on a hill between the city’s seven hills, and is a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Citadel has been occupied by a variety of civilizations, including the Canaanites, the Greeks, the Romans, the Byzantines, the Umayyads, and the Ottomans.
The site is home to a variety of ancient ruins, including a temple to Hercules, a Byzantine church, a Umayyad palace and mosque, and a Greek theatre. There are also several towers and walls that once served to protect the fortress. Today, the Citadel is a popular tourist attraction and a great place to explore the history of the city.
What to See at the Amman Citadel
The Amman Citadel is home to a variety of ancient structures and ruins. The most iconic structure is the Temple of Hercules, which was built in the 2nd century AD. This temple is believed to be the site of a pre-Roman shrine that was dedicated to the god Hercules.
The Umayyad Palace is another impressive structure at the Citadel. It was built in the 8th century AD and is one of the best-preserved Umayyad palaces in the world. The palace features many beautiful rooms and courtyards, and is a great place to explore the history of the Umayyad period.
Visitors can also explore the ruins of the Byzantine Church, which dates back to the 5th century AD. This church was abandoned in the 7th century and was later used as a mosque.
The Citadel also features a small Greek theatre, which dates back to the 1st century AD. This theatre was used to host concerts and plays, and is a great place to explore the history of ancient theatre in the region.
Exploring the Amman Citadel
The Amman Citadel is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jordan. It is a great place to explore the history of Amman and the region. Visitors can explore the ruins of the various structures, or simply enjoy the impressive views of the city.
The Citadel is open daily from 8am-4pm. Entrance to the site is 10 JOD for adults, 5 JOD for students, and free for children under 12. There is also a small cafe and gift shop at the site. For those looking to explore the Citadel in more detail, there are guided tours available.
Conclusion
The Amman Citadel is an impressive historical site that provides visitors with a unique insight into the history of Amman and the region. With its ancient ruins, stunning views of the city, and rich cultural heritage, the Citadel is a must-visit for any traveler to Jordan.