Presitige
Jarash, 48 miles north of Amman, is the one of the best-preserved provincial Roman cities in the world. It was a member of the Decapolis League, a confederation of the ten most important regional cities.
Decline
Jarash reached its peak of influence during the 3rd century AD, yet by the time the Crusaders passed through the area, the city was uninhabited. Over the years, the site slowly filled with sand that ensured its monuments were well preserved.
Jarash today
The arrow-straight main street is still paved with dressed stone and lined with an impressive colonnade. A huge triumphal arch marks the entry to the site, erected by the residents in 129 BC to honour a visit to Jarash by the Emperor Hadrian. There are hilltop temples, baths, a hippodrome, fountains and a large oval forum fringed by another colonnade.
Surrounding the entire city are walls punctuated by arched gates and guarded by towers.
Hippodrome
In its heyday the hippodrome could accommodate around 15,000 spectators. Today, visitors can still use the arena to watch re-enactments of Roman military manoeuvres, gladiatorial combat and chariot racing.
Jarash Festival of Culture and Arts
In late July and early August each year, the ancient plazas, avenues and theatres provide an enchanting backdrop for the Jarash Festival of Culture and Arts, a major celebration of music, drama, dance, poetry, craftwork and fine art.
Read more about historical towns and monuments in Jordan
Jarash, 48 miles north of Amman, is the one of the best-preserved provincial Roman cities in the world. It was a member of the Decapolis League, a confederation of the ten most important regional cities.
DeclineJarash reached its peak of influence during the 3rd century AD, yet by the time the Crusaders passed through the area, the city was uninhabited. Over the years, the site slowly filled with sand that ensured its monuments were well preserved.
Jarash today
The arrow-straight main street is still paved with dressed stone and lined with an impressive colonnade. A huge triumphal arch marks the entry to the site, erected by the residents in 129 BC to honour a visit to Jarash by the Emperor Hadrian. There are hilltop temples, baths, a hippodrome, fountains and a large oval forum fringed by another colonnade.
Surrounding the entire city are walls punctuated by arched gates and guarded by towers.
Hippodrome
In its heyday the hippodrome could accommodate around 15,000 spectators. Today, visitors can still use the arena to watch re-enactments of Roman military manoeuvres, gladiatorial combat and chariot racing.
Jarash Festival of Culture and Arts
In late July and early August each year, the ancient plazas, avenues and theatres provide an enchanting backdrop for the Jarash Festival of Culture and Arts, a major celebration of music, drama, dance, poetry, craftwork and fine art.
Read more about historical towns and monuments in Jordan
