Jerash is a city in Jordan, north of the capital Amman. Inhabited since the Bronze Age, it’s known for the ruins of the walled Greco-Roman settlement of Gerasa just outside the modern city. These include the 2nd-century Hadrian’s Arch, the Corinthian columns of the Temple of Artemis and the huge Forum’s oval colonnade.

Jerash, located in Jordan, is a city that boasts some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. This city is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur of the Roman Empire. The ruins include a number of significant structures, such as the Temple of Artemis, the Forum, and the Hippodrome. /n The city of Jerash is also home to a number of modern attractions, including a vibrant local market and a number of excellent restaurants and cafes. The city's rich history, combined with its modern amenities, make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Jordan.

Jerash is a city in Jordan known for its well-preserved Roman ruins. It's a popular tourist destination.

A unique oval-shaped forum surrounded by a colonnade, a distinctive feature of the ancient city's layout.

The Oval Plaza, or the Forum, is a unique architectural marvel in the ancient city of Jerash. This large, oval-shaped plaza is lined with a stunning colonnade and was once the city's bustling center. /n The plaza is remarkably well-preserved, with the original stone paving still intact. It's surrounded by 56 Ionic columns and was once adorned with a fountain in the center. Today, it's a popular spot for tourists to take photos and marvel at the grandeur of the ancient Roman architecture.

Oval Plaza is a unique architectural marvel in the ancient city of Jerash.

Dedicated to the patron goddess of the city, this temple is one of the most significant structures in Jerash, featuring towering columns and intricate carvings.

The Temple of Artemis is a significant religious site in the ancient city of Jerash. Dedicated to Artemis, the patron goddess of the city, this temple is a stunning example of Roman architecture. /n The temple is perched on a high point in the city, offering stunning views of the surrounding ruins. It's remarkably well-preserved, with 11 of the original 12 Corinthian columns still standing. The intricate carvings and details on the columns and the cella, or inner chamber, are a testament to the craftsmanship of the ancient Romans.

The Temple of Artemis is a significant religious site in Jerash.

Houses a large collection of artifacts discovered in the ancient city, including statues, coins, and mosaics, providing a glimpse into the city's rich history.

The Jerash Archaeological Museum is a treasure trove of artifacts from the ancient city of Jerash. The museum houses a vast collection of items, including statues, coins, pottery, and jewelry, all unearthed from the city's ruins. /n The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich history and culture. Each artifact tells a story of the people who once lived here, their beliefs, their art, and their daily life. It's a must-visit for anyone interested in history and archaeology.

Jerash Archaeological Museum houses artifacts from the ancient city.

The South Theatre is a well-preserved Roman structure in the ancient city of Jerash. It was built during the reign of Emperor Domitian, between 90-92AD, to seat more than 3000 spectators. The first level of the ornate stage, which originally had two additional levels, has been reconstructed and is still used today.

The South Theatre in Jerash is a remarkable example of Roman architecture. This well-preserved theatre offers visitors a unique glimpse into the past, showcasing the architectural prowess of the Romans. The theatre, which was built in the 1st century AD, could seat more than 3000 spectators and was used for a variety of performances, including plays, musical concerts, and gladiatorial contests. /n Today, the South Theatre is one of the main attractions in Jerash, drawing visitors from around the world. The theatre is still used for performances today, with the annual Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts being held here. This festival showcases a variety of performances, including traditional Jordanian music and dance, as well as plays and concerts. The South Theatre is a must-visit attraction for anyone traveling to Jerash.

The South Theatre is a well-preserved Roman theatre in Jerash, offering a glimpse into the past.

The city's main thoroughfare, lined with columns and leading to many of its major attractions.

Cardo Maximus is a grand colonnaded street in Jerash, a testament to Roman urbanism. This impressive attraction offers a glimpse into the past, showcasing the grandeur of Roman architecture and city planning. /n The street is lined with columns, each standing 9 meters high, and was once the city's main thoroughfare. Walking along the Cardo Maximus, you can almost hear the echoes of chariots and the bustling of ancient life. It's a must-visit for history buffs and architecture enthusiasts.

Cardo Maximus is a grand colonnaded street in Jerash, a testament to Roman urbanism.

A bustling city that offers a mix of modern and traditional Jordanian life, with markets, restaurants, and shops.

The Modern City of Jerash offers a unique blend of contemporary life and ancient history. This bustling city is home to modern amenities, shopping centers, restaurants, and cafes, all set amidst historical landmarks and ancient ruins. /n The city provides a stark contrast to the ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the daily life of Jordanians today. It's a must-visit for those looking to experience the culture and lifestyle of modern Jordan while exploring the country's rich history.

The Modern City of Jerash offers a blend of contemporary life and ancient history.

Discover the ancient city of Jerash, Jordan, a hidden treasure of the Middle East. As one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman cities, Jerash offers a journey back in time with its colonnaded streets, hilltop temples, amphitheaters, and spacious public squares. Marvel at the grandeur of Hadrian's Arch, built to honor the visit of Emperor Hadrian. Experience the thrill of the Jerash Festival, a cultural extravaganza showcasing local music, dance, and traditional crafts. Enjoy the local cuisine, rich with flavors of the Middle East. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Jerash promises an unforgettable travel experience.

Jerash

Oval Plaza

Temple of Artemis

Jerash Archaeological Museum

South Theatre

Cardo Maximus

Modern City of Jerash

Start your day with a visit to the ancient city of Jerash. Known as the Pompeii of the East for its well-preserved Roman architecture, you'll explore the Oval Plaza, the Temple of Artemis, and the Jerash Archaeological Museum.

Enjoy a traditional Jordanian lunch in a local restaurant. Try the national dish, Mansaf, a hearty meal of lamb cooked in fermented dried yogurt and served over rice or bulgur.

After lunch, continue your exploration of Jerash. Visit the South Theatre, a well-preserved Roman theatre that still hosts performances today. Then, stroll along the Cardo Maximus, a colonnaded street that was once the city's main thoroughfare.

For dinner, indulge in a feast of Middle Eastern cuisine in a local restaurant. Sample dishes like falafel, hummus, and tabbouleh, and don't forget to try the sweet, flaky pastries for dessert.

End your day with a leisurely walk through the Modern City of Jerash. Take in the contrast between the ancient ruins and the bustling contemporary city, and enjoy the warm hospitality of the local people.

A Day in Ancient and Modern Jerash

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Friday in March, ends last Friday in October

UTC+2

Jerash is a small city and can be easily navigated by car. Car rentals are available from Amman, the capital of Jordan, which is about 48 kilometers away. This gives you the flexibility to explore the city at your own pace.

Taxis are readily available and can be hailed from the street. They are a convenient way to get around Jerash, especially if you are not comfortable driving in a foreign country. Always ensure the meter is running to avoid being overcharged.

There are regular bus services from Amman to Jerash. Once in the city, you can walk to most of the tourist attractions as they are located close to each other.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Careem operate in Jordan. You can use these services to travel to Jerash from Amman or to get around within the city. They offer a convenient and often cheaper alternative to traditional taxis.

Many tour operators offer guided tours to Jerash from Amman. These tours typically include transportation, a guide, and sometimes meals. This is a hassle-free way to explore the city, especially if you are short on time.

Jerash is known for its ancient Roman ruins, which are best explored on foot. The city is compact and most of the main attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking allows you to take in the sights at your own pace and offers opportunities for great photos.

Bicycles can be rented in Jerash for those who prefer a more active mode of transportation. This is a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. However, be aware that the terrain can be hilly and the weather hot, especially in the summer months.

Mansaf is the national dish of Jordan, made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur. It's a must-try when visiting Jerash.

Mansaf

Maqluba is a traditional Jordanian dish that includes meat, rice, and fried vegetables cooked in a pot, which is then flipped upside down when served, hence the name maqluba, which translates literally as 'upside-down'.

Maqluba

Zarb is a Bedouin style barbecue, where meat and vegetables are slow-cooked in an underground sand oven. It's a unique culinary experience in Jerash.

Zarb

Shawarma is a popular street food in Jerash, made of thinly sliced cuts of meat, like chicken, beef, or lamb, rolled into a large piece of flatbread or pita.

Shawarma

Falafel is a deep-fried ball or patty made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both. It's a common street food in Jerash, often served in a pita.

Falafel

Hummus is a Levantine dip or spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic. It's a staple food in Jerash.

Hummus

Tabbouleh is a Levantine vegetarian salad made mostly of finely chopped parsley, with tomatoes, mint, onion, bulgur, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, salt and pepper.

Tabbouleh

Knafeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry, or alternatively fine semolina dough, soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup, and typically layered with cheese.

Knafeh

Baklava is a rich, sweet dessert pastry made of layers of filo filled with chopped nuts and sweetened and held together with syrup or honey. It's a popular dessert in Jerash.

Baklava

Arabic Coffee, also known as 'qahwa', is a symbol of Arab hospitality. It's made from coffee beans roasted very lightly or heavily from 165 to 210 °C and cardamom, and is a traditional beverage in Jerash.

Arabic Coffee

Mint Tea is a traditional and popular drink in Jerash, often served after meals. It's made with fresh mint leaves and black or green tea.

Mint Tea

Arak is a Levantine alcoholic spirit, clear and colorless, and traditionally made of grapes and aniseed. It's a popular drink in Jerash, often consumed with mezze.

Arak

New Year's Day

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Fitr holiday

Labour Day

Independence Day

Royal Wedding Half Day Holiday

Royal Wedding Holiday

Arafah

Eid al-Adha

Eid al-Adha holiday

Muharram/New Year

Prophet's Birthday

Christmas Day

A 12th-century Muslim castle situated in northwestern Jordan. It is placed on a hilltop belonging to the Jabal Ajlun district.

Ajloun Castle

A historical site at the center of downtown Amman, Jordan. Known in Arabic as Jabal al-Qal'a, the L-shaped hill is one of the seven jabals that originally made up Amman.

Amman Citadel

A 2nd-century Roman theater in Amman, Jordan. It is the largest Roman theater in Jordan with a seating capacity of 6,000.

Roman Theater, Amman

A salt lake bordered by Jordan to the east and Israel and Palestine to the west. It is one of the world's first health resorts, and it has been the supplier of a wide variety of products, from asphalt for Egyptian mummification to potash for fertilizers.

Dead Sea

A historical and archaeological city in southern Jordan. Petra lies around Jabal Al-Madbah in a basin surrounded by mountains which form the eastern flank of the Arabah valley that runs from the Dead Sea to the Gulf of Aqaba.

Petra

Known as the 'City of Mosaics' for the Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics found throughout the town, especially the 6th-century mosaic map of Jerusalem and the Holy Land at St. George Orthodox Church.

Madaba

An elevated ridge in Jordan, approximately 710 metres above sea level, mentioned in the Bible as the place where Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land.

Mount Nebo

Also known as the Valley of the Moon, it is a valley cut into the sandstone and granite rock in southern Jordan. It is the largest wadi in Jordan.

Wadi Rum

Amman

The Dead Sea

Aerial view of the ancient Roman city at sunset

Jerash is located in the north of Jordan, approximately 48 kilometers north of the capital Amman.

The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.

The local currency is the Jordanian Dinar (JOD). Credit cards are accepted in most places, but it's always good to carry some cash.

Jordan is predominantly a Muslim country, so it's important to respect local customs and dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.

The best time to visit Jerash is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild. Summers can be hot with temperatures reaching up to 95°F (35°C), and winters can be cold with temperatures dropping to around 41°F (5°C).

Jerash is known for its safety and hospitality. However, like any other tourist destination, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your belongings secure.

Public transportation is available, but it's not very reliable. Taxis and car rentals are the most convenient ways to get around.

Jordanian cuisine is a must-try. Popular dishes include Mansaf (lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt) and Maqluba (a dish with rice, meat, and vegetables).

Tap water is generally safe to drink, but bottled water is recommended for tourists to avoid any potential stomach upset.

It's customary to tip around 10% in restaurants, but it's not mandatory.

Jordan uses the Eastern European Time Zone (EET), which is 2 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+2).

The standard voltage in Jordan is 230 V, and the frequency is 50 Hz. The power plugs and sockets are of type C, D, F, G, and J.

It's important to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as healthcare can be expensive.

Jerash is not a duty-free zone, so be aware of your allowances when shopping.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon, especially between unmarried couples.

Smoking is common in Jordan, but it's banned in public places. However, this rule is not strictly enforced.

Alcohol is available in licensed restaurants and bars, but public drunkenness is heavily frowned upon.

Friday is a day of rest in Jordan, so many businesses and attractions may be closed.

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of locals, especially women.

Jerash hosts the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, a popular event that showcases traditional Jordanian and Middle Eastern music and dance. If your visit coincides with this festival, it's worth attending.

January is the coldest month in Jerash, with temperatures often dropping to 3°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still quite chilly. Pack warm clothes if you're visiting during this month.

March marks the beginning of spring in Jerash. The weather is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 6°C to 16°C.

April is a great month to visit Jerash, as the weather is warm but not too hot. Expect temperatures between 9°C and 19°C.

May is the start of the hot season in Jerash. The weather is warm, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 23°C.

June is a hot month in Jerash, with temperatures often reaching 26°C. It's a great time to visit if you enjoy the heat.

July is the hottest month in Jerash. If you're visiting during this month, be prepared for temperatures up to 28°C.

August is also a hot month in Jerash, with temperatures similar to July. It's a great time to visit if you love the sun.

September marks the beginning of the cooler season in Jerash. The weather is still warm, but not as hot as the summer months.

October is a pleasant month in Jerash, with moderate temperatures. It's a great time to visit if you prefer milder weather.

November sees a drop in temperature, but it's still quite pleasant. Pack some warm clothes if you're visiting during this month.

December is a cool month in Jerash, with temperatures often dropping to 5°C. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

Jerash, Jordan, is known for its Mediterranean climate, which means it experiences hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. 

If you're planning a trip to Jerash, it's essential to consider the time of year. The summer months, from June to August, can be quite hot, with temperatures often reaching up to 90°F (32°C). Therefore, if you're not a fan of high heat, it might be best to avoid these months. However, if you do decide to visit during this time, remember to stay hydrated and wear sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

The winter months, from December to February, are much cooler, with temperatures often dropping to around 50°F (10°C). Rain is also more common during this time, so packing a raincoat or umbrella would be advisable. Despite the cooler weather, winter can be a great time to visit Jerash as the tourist crowds are smaller and the ancient ruins can be explored in relative peace.

The spring and autumn months offer more moderate temperatures, making them an ideal time to visit. During these seasons, temperatures typically range between 60°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C). These periods also offer a beautiful change in scenery, with spring bringing blooming flowers and autumn showcasing a palette of warm colors.

Regardless of when you visit, it's always a good idea to check the local weather forecast before your trip to ensure you pack appropriately. Also, remember that the weather can change quickly, especially in the winter, so it's always good to be prepared for different conditions.

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Explore Jerash, Jordan in a Single Day Trip

About Jerash, Jordan