The Ruins of Jerash: An Unmissable Ancient City in Jordan
Nestled in the rolling hills of Jordan, The Ruines of Jerash is a stunning archaeological site that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. One of the best-preserved Roman cities in the Middle East, Jerash oozes history and culture, making it an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Jordan. From the iconic Nymphaeum to the Hippodrome, explore the ancient ruins of Jerash and discover the secrets of this incredible city.
A Brief History of the Ruins of Jerash
The Ruins of Jerash date back to the Bronze Age, but the site is best known for its ancient Roman ruins. Jerash was founded as Gerasa in the Hellenistic period and was later conquered by the Romans, who renamed it as ‘Gerasa’ in 63 BC. The city flourished under Roman rule, and was home to a thriving population of merchants and artisans. Jerash was also an important religious center, with several temples dedicated to the gods of the Greco-Roman pantheon.
Exploring the Ruins of Jerash
Today, The Ruins of Jerash is an incredible archaeological site, with structures dating from the Hellenistic, Roman and Byzantine periods. Visitors to the site can explore the ancient ruins, including the iconic Nymphaeum, the Hippodrome, the Temple of Artemis, and the Oval Plaza. The ruins are spread across two main areas: the lower city and the upper city. The lower city is home to the Nymphaeum, the Temple of Artemis and the Hippodrome, while the upper city is home to the Oval Plaza and the Temple of Zeus.
The Nymphaeum
The Nymphaeum is one of the most impressive structures at the Ruins of Jerash. Built in the 2nd century AD, the Nymphaeum is an ornate fountain dedicated to the nymphs of the city. The walls of the fountain are decorated with intricate carvings, depicting scenes from Greek mythology.
The Hippodrome
The Hippodrome is another iconic structure at the Ruins of Jerash. Built in the 2nd century AD, the Hippodrome was used for chariot races and other public events. The Hippodrome is still in surprisingly good condition, with its seating tiers still intact and the arena still visible.
The Oval Plaza
The Oval Plaza is one of the most impressive structures at the Ruins of Jerash. Built in the 2nd century AD, the Oval Plaza is a large rectangular courtyard surrounded by colonnades and flanked by two monumental arches. The plaza is home to the Temple of Zeus, which is believed to have been dedicated to the local ruler of the city.
The Temple of Artemis
The Temple of Artemis is another impressive structure at the Ruins of Jerash. Built in the 1st century AD, the Temple of Artemis is a small temple dedicated to the goddess Artemis. The temple is decorated with intricate carvings, depicting scenes from Greek mythology.
Conclusion
The Ruins of Jerash are an incredible archaeological site in Jordan. From the iconic Nymphaeum to the Hippodrome, explore the ancient ruins of Jerash and discover the secrets of this incredible city. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking to explore a unique destination, The Ruins of Jerash is an unmissable destination for anyone visiting Jordan.