Amman

Jordan’s modern capital encompasses the remains of many civilizations—Neolithic, Roman, Byzantine, Islamic, Umayyad, and Ottoman, to name just a few.

The city was once known as Rabbath-Ammon, then Philadelphia, later Ammon, and more recently as Amman. The area’s role as a population center reaches back to the prehistoric Pre-Pottery Neolithic Age, when the remarkable plaster statues discovered at Ein Ghazal were buried in a thriving settlement. These wonderful figures, around 9,000 years old, are a fascinating reminder of humanity’s long history in the region.

According to Jordan’s 2004 census, the population of Amman was established at 2 million people—though at times, it seems like that’s the number of cars on the streets.

Places to Visit in Amman

Some of the many places you might visit in Amman are noted below:

The Citadel

Offers a wealth of archaeological treasures, including the Umayyad Palace, Byzantine Basilica, and the Roman Temple of Hercules. Jordan’s small but jam-packed National Archaeological Museum is also located here and offers terrific views over the bustling downtown souks.

The Roman Theater

The most obvious and impressive relic of ancient Philadelphia. Two museums sit beside the theater: the Jordan Folklore Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions.

King Hussein Mosque

The heart of modern downtown Amman. This Ottoman-style mosque was rebuilt in 1924 on the site of an ancient mosque, which was itself likely built over the Byzantine cathedral of Philadelphia.

The Gold Souk

Located between King Hussein Mosque and the Citadel, it is famous for its shops packed with glittering gold jewelry. Tiny windows display rows of necklaces, bracelets, and other ornate pieces.

King Abdullah I Mosque

One of the finest examples of modern Islamic architecture, distinguished by its bright colors, large blue dome, Islamic library, and open squares. It is a popular backdrop for international TV crews reporting from Amman.

The Royal Automobile Museum

Showcases a marvelous collection of classic and modern vehicles, many of which were once owned by members of the Royal Family.

The Interactive Children’s Museum

Located in King Hussein Park in west Amman, it offers fun for the whole family with hands-on exhibits, games, and learning experiences focused on Jordan’s history, heritage, and traditions.

Modern City Life

As expected of a national capital, Amman offers a wide range of international restaurants, coffee shops and internet cafés, nightclubs, shopping areas and malls, cinemas, and galleries. However, with nearly half of Jordan’s population living in the city, the “bustle factor” is predictably high.

A continual influx of refugees from more volatile parts of the region has contributed to heavy traffic and extensive construction throughout the city.

Final Note

All things considered, Amman serves more as a gateway and business center than as a leisure destination.