Jerash: Ancient Roman Grandeur
Jerash is an ancient city in Jordan located 48 kilometers north of the capital Amman. The city is known for the ruins of the Greco-Roman city of Gerasa, also referred to as Antioch on the Golden River. It is sometimes misleadingly referred to as the 'Pompeii of the Middle East', referring to its size, extent of excavation and level of preservation.
About Jerash
Jerash is considered one of the most important and best preserved Roman cities in the Near East. It was one of the cities of the Decapolis, a federation of 10 Roman cities in the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire in Syria and Jordan. The city's golden age came under Roman rule, during which time it was known as Gerasa. Jerash is now the second-most popular tourist attraction in Jordan, after Petra. The modern city of Jerash is located to the east of the ruins. While the old and new share a city wall, careful preservation and planning has seen the city itself develop well away from the ruins so there is no encroachment on the sites of old.
Interesting Facts
Jerash was one of the ten great Roman cities of the Decapolis League
The city has a continuous chain of human occupation dating back more than 6,500 years
Jerash was conquered by General Pompey in 63 BC
The city's famous oval plaza is unique in the Roman world
Jerash hosts the annual Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts
Top Activities in Jerash
Tours Including Jerash
Plan Your Visit
Location
Northern Jordan, 48km north of Amman
Highlights
Roman ruins, Oval Plaza, Temple of Artemis, Colonnaded streets
Best Time to Visit
Spring (March-May) when wildflowers bloom or autumn (September-November) for mild temperatures.