Oum Qais Museum: Exploring the Splendors of Ancient Decapolis
Oum Qais Museum is a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the history of the ancient Decapolis cities. Located in the north of Jordan, the museum is home to a wealth of artifacts from the area’s past, many of which date back to the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic periods. In addition to being a great place to learn about the region’s history, Oum Qais Museum also offers visitors a unique insight into the culture and way of life in the ancient Decapolis.
History of Oum Qais Museum
Oum Qais Museum was established in 1991 by the Department of Antiquities of Jordan. The museum is situated in the old city of Oum Qais, which was formerly known as Gadara during the Hellenistic period. During this time, Gadara was one of the most important cities in the Decapolis, a group of ten cities located in what is now the Middle East.
The museum is housed in a restored Ottoman-style building that was built in the early 20th century. It was originally used as an educational institute before being converted into a museum. Inside, visitors will find a range of artifacts from the area’s past, such as pottery, coins, and sculptures from the Hellenistic period.
Highlights of Oum Qais Museum
One of the highlights of Oum Qais Museum is the range of Hellenistic artifacts on display. These include pottery, coins, and sculptures that date back to the time of the Decapolis. Examples of these artifacts include a bronze coin of Alexander the Great, a relief of the goddess Athena, and a marble bust of the goddess Aphrodite.
Another highlight of the museum is the collection of Byzantine artifacts. These include coins, pottery, and mosaics from the period. One of the most impressive pieces is a mosaic depicting the Archangel Gabriel, which dates back to the 10th century.
In addition to the Hellenistic and Byzantine artifacts, the museum also features a range of Islamic artifacts from the Umayyad period. These include coins, pottery, and sculptures that date back to the 7th and 8th centuries.
Visiting Oum Qais Museum
Oum Qais Museum is open to the public from 8.30am to 4.00pm every day except Fridays. The museum is free to enter and has a range of facilities, including a gift shop, a restaurant, and a parking lot.
The museum’s location in the old city of Oum Qais also makes it an ideal place to explore the area’s history and culture. Visitors can wander around the city’s narrow alleyways, admire its ancient architecture, and visit the nearby Umm Qais archaeological site.
Conclusion
Oum Qais Museum is a great place to explore the history and culture of the ancient Decapolis cities. It is home to a wealth of artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic periods. The museum is free to enter and is open every day except Fridays. It is also located in the old city of Oum Qais, making it an ideal place to explore the area’s history and culture.