Jordan Hejaz Railway: A Historical Journey Across the Middle East
The Jordan Hejaz Railway is a historic railway line that runs from Damascus in Syria to Medina in Saudi Arabia. Built in 1908, it is the oldest railway still in operation in the Middle East. The railway was originally constructed to transport pilgrims from Damascus to Mecca and Medina, two holy cities in Saudi Arabia.
The Jordan Hejaz Railway has become an important symbol of the region’s past and present, and its journey is filled with tales of courage, adventure, and tragedy. In this article, we’ll explore the history of the Jordan Hejaz Railway, its importance today, and the various tourist attractions along the route.
History of the Jordan Hejaz Railway
The Jordan Hejaz Railway was conceived in the late 19th century by the Ottoman Empire. At the time, the Ottoman Empire was the dominant power in the Middle East, and the railway was intended to strengthen its links with its Arab provinces.
The first section of the railway was completed in 1908, and it quickly became the most important transport link in the Middle East. The railway was a vital supply line for the Ottoman Army during World War I, and it was also used to transport troops and equipment.
The railway was damaged during the Arab Revolt of 1916-18, but it was quickly repaired and put back into service. After the war, the railway was used to transport pilgrims from Damascus to Mecca and Medina, two holy cities in Saudi Arabia.
Importance of the Jordan Hejaz Railway Today
The Jordan Hejaz Railway is still in operation today, and it remains an important link between Syria and Saudi Arabia. It is still used to transport pilgrims from Damascus to Mecca and Medina, and it is also an important freight link for the countries of the Middle East.
The railway has also become an important tourist attraction in recent years. Tourists can take a scenic journey through the desert, and visit many of the historical sites along the route.
Tourist Attractions Along the Jordan Hejaz Railway
There are many tourist attractions along the Jordan Hejaz Railway, from ancient fortresses to modern cities. Here are some of the highlights:
- Deraa: The starting point of the railway, Deraa is a historic city that was once part of the Ottoman Empire. It is home to many ancient ruins, and it is also the gateway to the deserts of Syria.
- Amman: The capital of Jordan, Amman is a modern city with a rich cultural heritage. It is home to many historical sites, such as the Roman amphitheater and the Citadel of Amman.
- Ma’an: Ma’an is a small city in southern Jordan, and it is the last stop before the Saudi border. It is home to several ancient sites, including the Roman city of Petra.
- Medina: The last stop on the railway, Medina is one of the holiest cities in Islam. It is home to the Prophet’s Mosque, the burial site of the Prophet Muhammad, and it is a major pilgrimage site for Muslims.
Conclusion
The Jordan Hejaz Railway is a historic railway that has connected Syria and Saudi Arabia for over a century. It is still in operation today, and it is an important tourist attraction for visitors to the Middle East. From ancient fortresses to modern cities, the journey along the railway is filled with history, culture, and adventure.