Choose from 29 Fun Things to Do in Jordan
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Qasr Kharana
A true “desert castle” near the Saudi Arabian border, Jordan’s Qasr Kharana sits two storeys tall over the desert plain. Built in the early Umayyad period 13,000 years ago, the purpose of the 60-room monolith is unclear — its design shows that it was never a fort, and it’s not on a trade route so it’s unlikely to have been a caravanserai either. It’s most likely that Qasr Kharana was a meeting space for Damascus elite and local Bedouin tribes. Whatever it was, the thick-walled limestone building remains imposing even today.
Excellently restored in the 1970s, its location in the barren desert makes Qasr Kharana one photogenic place. As you explore the upper rooms set around the large courtyard with a rainwater pool in the middle, look out for ancient Arabic graffiti. Just inside the entrance, learn more about Qasr Kharana from the interpretive plaque which is in both English and Arabic.
Practical Info
Sixteen km west along Hwy 40 from Qusayr Amra, Qasr Kharana is run by the Jordanian Ministry of Antiquities, and its visitor center has a permanent display on local history. Admission costs JD 2, which includes entry to the desert castles Qsar al-Azraq and Qsar Amra as well.
Address: Amman, Jordan
Admission: 2 JD
From $ 69
King's Highway
Running north-south along the squiggling spine of the Dead Sea rift, a road trip along the King’s Highway from biblical Madaba to Petra is to journey along a 2,000-year-old trade route bursting with history. Check out the Crusader castles at Karak and Shobak, and the ancient town of Madaba. Pop into Roman forts and visit a Nabataean temple. Or if you’re more into nature, Jordan’s Dana Nature Reserve is famous for its hiking, and in April the region is known for its black irises. Then there’s Wadi Mujib. Reaching nearly 1000 meters downwards, it’s known as the Grand Canyon of Jordan, and the King’s Highway crosses its upper reaches.
Not really a highway but more of a quiet, country road with amazing views around and alongside its 280-km route, you’ll get a glimpse of rural life in Jordan as you drive between the villages which collect at the top of the mountains.
Practical Info
Stretching 280 km, no public transport runs the length of King’s Highway, but you can always charter a taxi for the day, join a day tour, or even rent a car and make the trip last 4 or 5 days.
Address: Amman, Jordan
From $ 34
Raghadan Palace
In Amman’s old quarter, Raghadan Palace was the first of many Crown properties to be built in the Royal Hashemite Court compound. Designed by Lebanese architect Saadedinne Chatella and built in 1926 as the residence of King Abdullah I and his family, the ornate palace is designed in traditional Islamic architecture style, with stained glass windows inspired by Jerusalem’s iconic al-Aqsa Mosque. Built from stone sourced from the Jordanian town of Ma’an, Raghadan Palace is also famous for its ornate woodwork and Throne Room ceiling fresco.
Renovated in the 1980s after a fire, you may recognize the Throne Room from the newspapers: it’s where King Abdullah II hosts royalty and Heads of State like Barack Obama for important meetings and ceremonies.
“Raghadan” means “the very best life,” and the palace even has its own galleried prayer hall, al-Maar al A’la, on the ground floor. Basman Palace, the offices of the current king, is also in the court compound, as is Al-Qasr Al-Sagheer where Queen Rania works from. Just outside the palace, you’ll recognize the Raghadan Flagpole — standing 416 feet tall, the flag can be seen from 12 miles away, making it one of the tallest flagpoles in the world.
Practical Info
In Amman’s old town, Jordan’s royal court is close to the railway station near Marka Airport.
Address: Amman, Jordan
From $ 75
Little Petra (Siq al-Barid)
A northern satellite of Petra, Little Petra centers on a narrow canyon known as Siq al-Barid. With its water cisterns, carved houses, and rock-cut stairs, it has more of a lived-in feel than Petra proper. Its signature site, the Painted House, is home to one of the only surviving Nabatean painted interiors, which features jaw-dropping frescoes.
The Basics
Although it’s physically separate from the site of Petra itself, Little Petra can be accessed on the same ticket: the two-day or two-day Petra entrance tickets are both a great value. Little Petra has much less signage than big Petra, so you’ll probably want to hire a guide or join a Little Petra tour.
Some multi-day Jordan tours visit both Little Petra and Petra proper, and some Petra day tours also include a stop at Little Petra. Some Little Petra tours focus exclusively on the Nabatean ruins around Siq al-Barid, while others also take in the neolithic village of Al-Beidha and geological features.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Archaeologists believe Little Petra was built to house traders passing through on the Silk Road.
- While less spectacular than Petra proper, Little Petra is considerably less crowded.
- The ancient water cisterns outside Siq al-Barid are still functioning: local Bedouin sometimes bring their livestock into Little Petra to drink water.
How to Get There
You can reach Little Petra by taxi or by driving from either Petra or Wadi Musa, the jumpoff town for Petra; it’s around 6 miles (9 kilometers) from the visitor center. A fascinating walk leads to Little Petra through the mountains from the Monastery (Al Deir). The 4-mile (6-kilometer) hike takes about 2.5 hours, and you’ll need a guide.
When to Get There
Little Petra is less crowded than big Petra, but it does attract group tours, most of which visit in the afternoons. Aim to arrive in the morning, as close as possible to 6am, to get the best experience. Peak seasons for Petra tours and Little Petra tours—as well as Jordan tourism generally—are spring and fall: roughly mid-March to mid-May and mid-September to mid-November.
The Painted House at Little Petra
Hidden under the soot and grime of Bedouin cooking fires for centuries, the 2,000-year-old frescoes at Little Petra’s Painted House were discovered in the late aughts and carefully restored. Created by Nabateans in the Greek style, they focus on the worship of Dionysus, god of wine; the birds, insects, vines, and cherubs are startlingly realistic.
Address: Wadi Musa, Jordon, Jordan
Admission: Varies
From $ 75
King Abdullah Mosque
Stunning King Abdullah Mosque was built between 1982 and 1986 as a memorial to the late King Hussein’s Grandfather, His Majesty As-Sayyid Abdullah I, King of Jordan.
A fine example of modern Islamic architecture the mosque is capped by a magnificent blue mosaic dome, beneath which 3,000 Muslims can offer prayer at any one time. Inside the dome are verses from the Quran, along with a chandelier also inscribed with Quranic verses. A red carpet represents fertile land and its patterns direct people towards Mecca.
There is a small museum inside with a collection of pottery and photographs of His Majesty King Abdullah I. Visitors to the mosque are welcomed but should remember to remove shoes and dress modestly.
A fine example of modern Islamic architecture the mosque is capped by a magnificent blue mosaic dome, beneath which 3,000 Muslims can offer prayer at any one time. Inside the dome are verses from the Quran, along with a chandelier also inscribed with Quranic verses. A red carpet represents fertile land and its patterns direct people towards Mecca.
There is a small museum inside with a collection of pottery and photographs of His Majesty King Abdullah I. Visitors to the mosque are welcomed but should remember to remove shoes and dress modestly.
Address: Jordan
From $ 106
La Storia Complex
La Storia Complex, located just over a mile (2 kilometers) from Mt. Nebo, offers visitors a quirky overview of the culture, religion, history and heritage of Jordan. The museum portion of the complex comprises a series of dioramas (some of them animatronic) depicting mostly Biblical scenes, starting with Noah’s Ark and continuing through the parting of the Red Sea, the birth of Jesus and the Last Supper. Other scenes show what life was like in a traditional Bedouin village, with animatronic villagers performing day-to-day tasks.
Also of interest is the onsite HandiCrafts Centre, where you can buy handmade mosaics, furniture, carpets, Dead Sea products, scarves, shawls and Bedouin jewelry, much of it made by local artists with special needs. Another section of the museum has been reserved to house what could turn out to be the largest mosaic mural in the world, set to measure 98 feet (30 meters) long and 20 feet (6 meters) tall.
Practical Info
La Storia Complex is open daily from 9am to 5pm.
Address: Mount Nebo, Jordan
Hours: Open daily from 9am to 5pm
Admission: Admission: JD2
From $ 106
Ajloun Castle
Built atop the ruins of a monastery between 1184 and 1188, Ajloun Castle (Qala’At Ar-Rabad in Arabic) sits on Jabal Auf hill overlooking the countryside in the north of Jordan. Arab general Azz ad-Din Usama, Saladin’s nephew, oversaw its construction in part to protect the region from Crusader expansion and to safeguard iron mines in the nearby hills. The fort was enlarged in 1214 but largely destroyed by Mongols in 1260. It was rebuilt almost immediately, and while earthquakes have twice caused significant damage, ongoing restorations have kept the castle in much the same condition as it stood in the 13th century.
During the Crusades, the hilltop fort was one in a series of beacon and pigeon posts that allowed messages to be transmitted from Damascus to Cairo in a single day. During the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries, the fort served as a garrison for Ottoman troops, and in 1812, when it was “discovered” by Swiss explorer Johann Ludwig Burckhardt, the vasy castle was occupied by a single, 40-member family.
Today Ajloun Castle houses a small museum with artifacts from its long history. Visitors can climb to the top of several towers for sweeping views of the Jordan Valley all the way to the Dead Sea.
Practical Info
The walk to the castle from town is steep and tiring, so consider taking a taxi from Ajloun.
Address: Ajlun, Jordon, Jordan
From $ 39
Jordan Archaeological Museum
This rather rambling but fascinating museum is perched on the Citadel Hill in Amman, just northwest of the Temple of Hercules. Built in 1951, the Jordan Archaeological Museum displays artifacts in chronological order from archaeological sites all over Jordan, dating from prehistoric times to the 15th century.
A stand out attraction is the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, a collection of 972 texts from the Hebrew Bible that were discovered in the 1940s. You can also see ancient sculpture, preserved skulls and rhinoceros teeth that date back 200,000 years.
Also housed here are several jewelry and coin collections and ancient items of daily life such as pottery, glass, flint and metal tools. Inscriptions and statuaries are also on display.
A stand out attraction is the famous Dead Sea Scrolls, a collection of 972 texts from the Hebrew Bible that were discovered in the 1940s. You can also see ancient sculpture, preserved skulls and rhinoceros teeth that date back 200,000 years.
Also housed here are several jewelry and coin collections and ancient items of daily life such as pottery, glass, flint and metal tools. Inscriptions and statuaries are also on display.
Address: Amman, Jordan
Hours: Open Sat - Thurs 8:00am - 6:00pm, Fri 9:00am - 4:00pm
From $ 24
Petra
The stone city of Petra was carved into Jordan’s red rock cliffs more than 2,000 years ago. Once a Roman trading stop and stronghold of the Nabataean Arab kingdom, Petra is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the world’s most iconic archaeological destinations.
The Basics
Petra is a highlight of the Middle East, renowned for its astonishing cliff-bound monuments and Greek-influenced architectural style. Thanks to the city’s Hollywood portrayal in Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, Petra rose to international fame and is now one of Jordan’s most-visited attractions. Travelers usually approach the site through the long and narrow Siq, a chasm that opens up on the magnificent Treasury—Petra’s most-photographed building. Within the winding mountain ravines you’ll also find tombs, an 8,000-seat amphitheater, and the triumphal arch of the Temenos Gateway.
While it’s possible to catch Petra’s highlights on a day trip from Eilat, Jerusalem, or Amman, there’s enough to see to warrant a multi-day stay. Petra is often included on longer tours of Israel and Jordan that typically include visits to Wadi Rum, the Dead Sea, Jerusalem, and Bethlehem, depending on the length and option chosen. For a personalized experience, opt for a private tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Petra is a must-see for adventure travelers and archaeology buffs.
- Visitors can opt for a 1-day or 2-day pass for entrance into Petra.
- It gets hot in the Jordan desert; don’t forget to bring sun protection and plenty of water.
- Remember to dress respectfully in loose-fitting clothing that covers your legs and shoulders.
- Petra tours from Eilat, Jerusalem, and Amman can last up to 12 hours.
How to Get There
Petra is 150 miles (240 kilometers) south of Jordan, near the town of Wadi Mousa. It takes roughly 20 minutes to walk from town to the archaeological site. A guided day tour is the most convenient way to get there, but Wadi Mousa can also be reached by JETT bus from Amman or Aqaba. Transportation by taxi is also an option.
When to Get There
Plan to arrive at the main entrance first thing in the morning to explore the site before crowds begin to arrive. Spring and autumn offer the best weather, with warm days and cool nights. Expect temperatures over 100°F (38°C) in summer.
Petra Monastery Hike
While the Treasury ranks as Petra’s most famous structure, the Monastery is just as impressive and often much less crowded, due in part to the strenuous hour-long hike necessary to get there. Those who brave the journey up some 800 rock-cut steps are rewarded with a chance to explore Petra’s largest carved monument. The path up to the Monastery sits mostly in the shade during the afternoon.
Address: Jordan
From $ 48
Aqaba
As Jordan’s only coastal city and a busy seaport, Aqaba makes a popular stop for cruise ships and a scenic base for exploring Petra and Wadi Rum, encircled by desert mountains and fronting the glistening Red Sea. Recent developments have seen a string of luxury resorts spring up along Aqaba’s coastline, along with the manmade lagoons of the Ayla Oasis Project, which also boasts a marina, golf course and shopping complex, but the town’s main draw is still its natural assets.
Aqaba’s warm waters mean that it’s possible to swim almost all year round and the 5 public beaches form part of the Aqaba Marine Park—a top destination for scuba divers with its expanse of colorful coral reefs and more than 507 species of fish.
Practical Info
Aqaba is located on the southwestern coast of Jordan at the northeastern tip of the Red Sea.
Address: Aqaba, Jordan
From $ 94
Mount Nebo
Mount Nebo is 817 meters (2,680 feet) above sea level, and thus more than 1km (0.6 mi) above the neighboring Dead Sea. It is a site holy to both Christians and Jews: Moses is said to have died on or near the mountain some time after God had showed him the Holy Land from its summit.
You can still enjoy the prophet’s view today – gaze out over the sea lying under a saline haze, the ancient city of Jericho and, if you’re lucky, all the way to Jerusalem and Bethlehem. On Siyagha (one of the mountain’s twin peaks), you can see the remains of mosaics from a Byzantine monastery.
Practical Info
Mount Nebo is near both the Dead Sea and Madaba, and can be included on a day trip from Amman to either or both of those places. The nearby village of Khirbet al-Mukhayyat (Nebo in the Bible) contains more mosaic treasures.
Address: Jordan
From $ 69
Azraq Wetland Reserve
A tranquil oasis hidden between the vast sands and sandstone cliffs of Jordan’s deserts, the Azraq Wetland Reserve offers a welcome change of scenery, and it’s an easy day trip from nearby Amman.
The expanse of lush wetlands, glittering blue pools and seasonally flooded marshland is undeniably scenic, but the main attractions for visitors are the wildlife spotting opportunities. Around 150 species of migratory birds pass through the reserve, while native species include water buffalo and the rare Azraq Killifish.
Practical Info
The Azraq Wetland Reserve is located around 100km east of Amman and is open daily from 9am-6pm.
Address: Jordan
Hours: Open daily from 9am-6pm
From $ 106
Madaba
Like a number of sites in the region, Madaba was mentioned in the Bible. It subsequently became a Roman provincial town and had its apogee under the Byzantine Empire. It is to that era that the town owes its chief treasures – its mosaics.
The must-see site in town is the Church of St. George, now a Greek Orthodox basilica, home of the enormous Madaba Mosaic Map. The map, with its richly-detailed rendering of Jerusalem, Jericho, Bethlehem and other holy sites, was only rediscovered in 1894 and has since been brilliantly restored.
The must-see site in town is the Church of St. George, now a Greek Orthodox basilica, home of the enormous Madaba Mosaic Map. The map, with its richly-detailed rendering of Jerusalem, Jericho, Bethlehem and other holy sites, was only rediscovered in 1894 and has since been brilliantly restored.
Madaba’s biblical significance makes it an important place of pilgrimage, while it is also home to a thriving Christian community, living in harmony with the Muslim majority.
Madaba is within easy reach of Amman; approximately half an hour by taxi or minibus. While there be sure to visit nearby Mount Nebo.
Address: Jordan
From $ 88
Pella
The ancient city of Pella, one of Jordan’s most underrated attractions, is also one of the country’s most important archeological sites. Humans have been living in and around Pella continuously for more than 6,000 years.
Among the ruins in the area are the remnants of a Greco-Roman theater, a Chalcolithic settlement dating back to the fourth millennium BC, Byzantine churches, Bronze and Iron age walled cities and early Islamic residential neighborhoods. Excavations in Pella have been ongoing since 1979, and there are still countless sites left to be excavated.
Practical Info
The ruins of Pella can be seen on a day trip from Irbid, Amman or Jerash.
Address: Pella, Jordan
From $ 69
Amman Citadel
Modern, buzzy Amman does a better job than Damascus or Jerusalem of hiding its ancient origins, but Philadelphia (to give the city its original Roman name) does have some notable antiquities.
Foremost among them is the Amman Citadel, built on the summit of Jebel al-Qala'a, the highest of Amman’s seven hills. It has had an extraordinarily long life as a fortress, with evidence of Bronze Age usage, while the remnants of a Roman site, including the Temple of Hercules, are still very much in evidence. This Citadel has also been a royal residence, as indicated by the ruins of the 8th century Ummayad palace, with its largely intact domed audience hall built on the site of a Byzantine basilica.
Foremost among them is the Amman Citadel, built on the summit of Jebel al-Qala'a, the highest of Amman’s seven hills. It has had an extraordinarily long life as a fortress, with evidence of Bronze Age usage, while the remnants of a Roman site, including the Temple of Hercules, are still very much in evidence. This Citadel has also been a royal residence, as indicated by the ruins of the 8th century Ummayad palace, with its largely intact domed audience hall built on the site of a Byzantine basilica.
The Citadel makes a great vantage point over the rest of the city, an especially impressive sight at sunset or at evening as the lights twinkle on Amman’s sloping hills.
Practical Info
The best option for reaching the top of Jebel al-Qala'a from central Amman is to take a taxi; you can always walk down again.
Address: Amman, Jordan
From $ 31
Byzantine Church (Petra Church)
Located within the ancient city of Petra, the Byzantine Church (or Petra Church) was first constructed in the fifth century AD, on top of Nabataean and Roman ruins, and expanded in the sixth century AD before being destroyed by fire and earthquakes. It’s still being excavated, but visitors can view its well-preserved mosaics.
The Basics
Excavation of the Byzantine Church, discovered by American archaeologist Kenneth Russell in 1990, started two years later and continues to this day. A protective tent covers the three-aisled basilica, measuring about 85 feet (26 meters) by 49 feet (15 meters) and paved with 230 feet (70 meters) of well-preserved mosaic tiles depicting animals real and mythical, nature, and personifications of the seasons, the elements, the ocean, the earth, and wisdom. Fragments of wall mosaic have also been found, as well as examples of marble church furnishings, some of which have been restored.
Visit the Byzantine Church and other Petra highlights, such as the Treasury and the Monastery, on a guided tour. Those with more time can take a multi-day tour of top Jordan attractions, including Petra, Jerash, and the Dead Sea. Tours also originate from either Eilat or Tel Aviv in Israel and include single-day and multi-day options.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Wear comfortable, sturdy shoes to explore Petra, as there will be a lot of walking.
- Bring sun protection and lots of water, especially in the summer.
- A small café near the Byzantine Church offers snacks and tea.
- Restrooms are available near the café by the church.
How to Get There
The Byzantine Church is located within Petra. It can be found on the north slope of Colonnade Street and to the east of the Winged Lion Temple. From Colonnade Street, it’s about a 10-minute walk uphill to the church.
When to Get There
It’s best to visit Petra in the early morning or late afternoon to beat the crowds and the heat. The main area of the Byzantine Church is covered, which provides some respite from the sun and heat.
The Petra Scrolls
In 1993, archaeologists found 152 carbonized papyrus scrolls in the church dating to the sixth century AD. Known as the Petra Scrolls, they represent one of the largest collections of ancient writing ever discovered in Jordan. The scrolls are still being deciphered, but they appear to be the records of one extended family living between AD 528 and 582 and include contracts dealing with marriages, dowries, inheritance, and division of property. Some of these documents can be viewed at the Jordan Museum in Amman.
Address: Petra, Jordan
Admission: Varies
From $ 1,219
Qasr Azraq
Located about an hour east of Amman, Qasr Azraq is a desert fortress created by the Romans back in 300 AD, although the structure in its current form was built in 1237 by the Mamelukes. The exact location of Qasr Azraq (meaning Blue Fortress) in the center of the Azraq Oasis was chosen strategically; this area is the only water source for over 7,000 miles. One of the fortress’ striking features is its color – the local basalt gives it an atypical black hue, which is where it’s believed the fortress gets its name, as it can appear blueish at certain times. Flanking an expansive courtyard and mosque are long walls with inspiring towers, and the site’s huge door is a sight on its own; the structure is made completely of heavy stone (hinges included) and can be a challenge to open. The whole thing weighs three tons.
While the design is impressive, most visitors head to Qasr Azraq to learn about Thomas Edward Lawrence (also known as Lawrence of Arabia) and Sherif Hussain bin Ali, who stayed in the fortress during the winter of 1917 when the Arab Revolt against the Turks went on. Lawrence wrote about staying at Qasr Azrqa in his book, Seven Pillars of Wisdom, and more can be learned from the movie, Lawrence of Arabia. Visitors to the fortress can see the room he stayed in here.
Practical Info
There are no set visiting hours for Qasr Azraq, as Nader, the caretaker, is there to escort visitors inside as they arrive. The site doesn’t have much signage, so it’s worthwhile to hire Nader (a blood relative of someone who fought alongside Lawrence of Arabia) as a guide, which can be done for a small negotiable fee. There is also a restaurant at the site serving lunch and dinner.
Address: Qasr Azraq, Amman, Jordan
Hours: There are no set visiting hours.
From $ 34
Madaba Map
Located in Madaba, the 19th-century Greek Orthodox St. George Church is home to the famous Madaba Map. This sixth-century Byzantine mosaic map is believed to have been created in 542 AD, making it one of the world’s oldest biblical maps. It features imagery of the Holy Land depicted in ornate tiles and was originally made to encompass about 51 feet by 19.5 feet.
The map features more than 150 Greek inscriptions and shows locations like Jericho, the Dead Sea, Palestine, the Nile Delta, Karak and the focus of the map, Jerusalem. Today it’s about one-third its original size, although it is still in excellent condition and worth a visit. It’s said that Muslims once damaged the maps in places where Islam was portrayed as an apostate religion due to offense taken by the fact that the map depicts Jesus as God’s son. The map was unearthed in 1894 AD, and St. George Church was then built over it to act as its protector. Today visitors can see what remains of this beautiful piece of art and history up close. Since its rebirth, the map has not only enthralled church visitors, but has also helped scientists and researchers discover new landmarks and better understand historical topography.
Practical Info
St. George Church is located about 45 minutes from Amman. Photos can be taken inside St. George Church, so you’ll be able to snap pictures of the famous Madaba Map. From Amman, Madaba can be reached via Highway 35 (the King’s Highway). St. George Church is free to enter, and it is open from 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and on Saturday. It opens later on Friday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
Address: St. George Church, Madaba, Amman, Jordan
Hours: 8:30 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and on Saturday. It opens later on Friday and Sunday at 10:30 a.m.
From $ 34
Jerash
In ancient times, the Roman town of Gerasa grew rich from iron ore as well as agricultural products which flourished in this comparatively lush temperate region. This wealth in turn endowed the town with architectural treasures: the unique oval Forum, Hippodrome, Amphitheater, Agora, and the proud columns of the Temple to Artemis. The majestic Hadrian’s Arch dates from the eponymous Roman Emperor’s visit, an event which signaled the town’s importance.
Not long after the spread of Islam into the area, Gerasa was devastated by an earthquake and for centuries lay buried in sand. This accounts for the remarkable state of preservation in this, one of Jordan’s most important Roman sites. Significant sections of all the above-named sites can still be seen next to the modern town of Jerash, as well as colonnaded streets and city walls which precisely delineate the town’s contours, giving a vivid sense of life in an ancient Roman town.
Practical Info
The remains of Gerasa are adjacent to the modern town of Jerash, 30 miles (48 kilometers) north of Amman and accessible by bus or taxi.
Address: Jordan
From $ 39
Qusayr Amra
Qasr Amra earned itself UNESCO World Heritage site status in 1985 because of its famous frescoes, and it’s one of Jordan’s most renowned desert castles. Built near a wadi of pistachio trees during the reign of Walid I in around AD 711, restorations by a group of Spanish archaeologists in the 1970s unveiled floor-to-ceiling frescoes that caused the powers that be at UNESCO to describe the castle as a “masterpiece of human creative genius.”
Built from limestone and basalt, from the outside Qasr Amra doesn’t look particularly special. And then you enter. Greeted by frescoes of cherubs and hunters, nude women bathing, and all kinds of scenes of wine drinking, the racy images are a world away from typical Islamic art. Look up at the ceiling of Qasr Amra’s main dome to see an accurate painting of the zodiac, still remarkably well preserved after 12,000 years.
Practical Info
Fifty-three miles from Amman and 16 miles from Azraq on the north side of Hwy 40m, you can visit Qsar Amra by car or hire a taxi from Azraq. There’s an onsite visitor center where you can collect your ticket, which costs JD 2 and which is valid also for the desert castles Qsar al-Azraq and Qsar Kharana. Qsar Amra is open 8am-6pm from May to September, and from 8am-4pm October to April.
Address: Al - Azraq, Jordan
Admission: 2 JD
From $ 34