Exploring the Cisterns of Tawila in Jordan
Jordan is a country of many fascinating historical sites, and one of the most intriguing is the Cisterns of Tawila. Located in the city of Amman, these ancient underground cisterns are believed to date back to the Roman period and have been used to store and manage water for thousands of years. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the Cisterns of Tawila and explore what makes this historic site so special.
What Are the Cisterns of Tawila?
The Cisterns of Tawila were constructed by the Romans in the 1st century AD and have been in use ever since. They are located in the city of Amman, on the slopes of Jabal al-Qala’a Hill, and consist of two distinct sections: the upper cisterns and the lower cisterns. The upper cisterns are the oldest, and feature a series of interconnected passageways and chambers cut into the rock of the hill. The lower cisterns are more recent, and are made up of two large tanks that were used to store and manage water.
The History and Significance of the Cisterns of Tawila
The Cisterns of Tawila were originally built by the Romans as part of their water management system. The cisterns were used to collect rainwater and store it for use during times of drought. In addition, they were also used to store and filter drinking water for the city’s inhabitants.
The Cisterns of Tawila are an important example of Roman engineering and demonstrate the advanced technology and engineering techniques used by the Romans to manage their water supply. In addition, the cisterns are also a testament to the importance of water management in the ancient world.
Exploring the Cisterns of Tawila
The Cisterns of Tawila are open to visitors and are a popular tourist attraction in Amman. The entrance fee to the site is 3 Jordanian dinars, and visitors are allowed to explore the cisterns at their own pace.
The upper cisterns are the most interesting and can be explored via a series of interconnected passageways and chambers. The lower cisterns, meanwhile, can be accessed via a small doorway and consist of two large tanks.
Visitors to the Cisterns of Tawila can also explore the nearby archaeological site, which includes remains from the Roman period, including an amphitheater and a large cistern.
Conclusion
The Cisterns of Tawila are an important example of Roman engineering and are a must-see for anyone visiting Amman. The cisterns offer a unique insight into the engineering techniques used by the Romans to manage their water supply and are a great way to explore the history of the city. So, if you’re looking for an interesting and educational experience, then the Cisterns of Tawila are definitely worth a visit.