Amman: Jordan's Vibrant Capital
Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a modern city with numerous ancient ruins. Atop Jabal al-Qala'a hill, the historic Citadel includes the pillars of the Roman Temple of Hercules and the 8th-century Umayyad Palace complex, known for its grand dome. Built into a different downtown hillside, the Roman Theater is a 6,000-capacity, 2nd-century stone amphitheater offering occasional events.
About Amman
Amman is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, with evidence of settlement dating back to 7250 BC. The city has been inhabited by several civilizations, including the Ammonites, Assyrians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Byzantines, and Umayyads. Today, Amman is a bustling metropolis with a population of over 4 million people, making it the most populous city in Jordan and one of the most populous in the Levant. The city is often referred to as the 'White City' due to the white limestone used to build many of its buildings. Amman is a major tourist destination in the region and serves as a base for visitors exploring other parts of Jordan.
Interesting Facts
Amman was originally built on seven hills, but now spans over 19 hills
The city was known as Philadelphia during the Greco-Roman period
Amman is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world
The city is divided into Eastern (traditional) and Western (modern) parts
Amman hosted the 1999 West Asian Games
Top Activities in Amman
Tours Including Amman
Plan Your Visit
Location
Northern Jordan, capital city
Highlights
Citadel, Roman Theater, Rainbow Street, Traditional markets
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer ideal weather for city exploration.