- As – Salt Palace
Salt, Jordan, holds a special place in the country’s heritage, being the first urban city to grace the prestigious World Heritage List. Now joining the ranks of renowned Jordanian landmarks like Petra, Quseir Amra, and Wadi Rum, Al Salt stands as the sixth site to earn this esteemed designation. Just a brief 30-minute journey from the bustling capital city of Amman, Salt promises a day trip brimming with historical and cultural treasures.
Nestled within Al Salt’s rich tapestry lies the enigmatic Al-Salt Palace, a testament to the region’s storied past. This ancient fortress, dating back to the early 13th century AD, was commissioned by Al-Mu’azzam Isa, the Ayyubid sultan of Damascus and son of Saladin’s brother, al-Malik al-Adil. Constructed amidst the turbulent era of the Crusades, the castle bears witness to a fascinatingchapter in Jordan’s history.
- Um Al Jimmal
Umm El Jimal stands as a remarkable testament to ancient Nabataean ingenuity, constructed from striking black basalt blocks expertly assembled with rectangular counterparts. Within this captivating city, a myriad of basins dots the landscape, serving both public and private needs.
Historically, Umm El Jimal held significant importance as a pivotal junction connecting the roads of Palestine and Jordan to those stretching through Syria and Iraq. Delving into the essence of Bedouin life, visitors can immerse themselves in the timeless rhythms of the desert by accompanying a shepherd or camel herder on their journey.
For a truly authentic experience, one can venture into a ‘Beit sha’ar” or Bedouin tent, where the aroma of Arabic coffee fills the air, accompanied by the hypnotic strains of the Rababa. Here, amidst warm hospitality, tales of Bedouin customs, traditions, and values come to life, offering a glimpse into a rich cultural tapestry woven through generations.
- Pella
Situated just a short drive away from the town of Tabaqit Fahl lies the ancient city of Pella, boasting a rich history spanning over 6000 years and standing as a cornerstone of Jordan’s historical heritage. While its origins trace back to around 5000 BC, it wasn’t until the Greek and Roman periods that Pella flourished into prominence.
Under the rule of Pompey in 63 BC, Pella became a pivotal member of the Roman Decapolis League, a federation of ten cities in the Levant annexed by the Roman Empire. Its strategic placement along significant trade routes likely contributed to its recognition by the Romans.
During the Byzantine era, Pella thrived with a bustling population of 25,000 inhabitants, emerging as a vibrant urban center. Its historical significance stretches even further back, with evidence of human habitation dating back to the Stone Age, rendering it a crucial archaeological site.
Exploring Pella today unveils a captivating tapestry of ancient remnants. Roman relics including a well-preserved theatre, baths, and a fountain house offer glimpses into the city’s grandeur during that period. Additionally, an Islamic quarter featuring a mosque and courtyard provides insight into the city’s later cultural evolution. Delving deeper into its past, visitors can wander through the ruins of Byzantine churches and residences, offering a vivid portrayal of life in ancient Pella.