#Temple of Hercules Amman

[suetravelblog]

Jabal Amman Jordan

Rainbow Street Jabal Amman – planetofhotels Amman is my home base through May, and I’m settling into a new apartment. The fascinating city is full of surprises. There’s much to discover and learn about the local culture and lifestyle. Mango House – universes.art Amman is popular, and expatriates from all over the world live here. I won’t elaborate on apartment hunting issues I encountered, but…

[andrewshenouda]

Temple of Hercules - (AD 162–166)

[athis3]

Temple of Hercules is a historic site in the Amman Citadel in Amman, Jordan. It is thought to be the most significant Roman structure in the Amman Citadel. According to an inscription the temple was built when Geminius Marcianus was governor of the Province of Arabia (AD 162–166), in the same period as the Roman Theater in Amman. [1]

Ruins of the Roman temple of Hercules, Amman (Jordan)

[jordanianroyals]

Glimpses of Tariq Judeh (grandson of Prince El Hassan)'s wedding to Zane Abu Hantash on 28 July 2023. The wedding is held at the Amman Citadal, a popular tourist site that overlooks the city.

The citadel is an archeological site in downtown Amman. The L-shaped hill is one of the seven hills that originally made up Amman. The choice of the wedding venue is perhaps a nod to the groom's education background as he graduated from the University of Edinburgh’s School of History, Classics & Archaeology.

The Citadel has a long history of occupation by many great civilizations. Evidence of inhabitance since the Neolithic period has been found and the hill was fortified during the Bronze Age (1800 BCE). The hill became the capital of the Kingdom of Ammon sometime after 1200 BCE. It later came under the sway of empires such as the Neo-Assyrian Empire (8th century BCE), Neo-Babylonian Empire (6th century BC), the Ptolemies, the Seleucids (3rd century BCE), Romans (1st century BCE), Byzantines (3rd century CE) and the Umayyads (7th century CE). After the Umayyads, came a period of decline and for much of the time until 1878 as the former city became an abandoned pile of ruins only sporadically used by Bedouins and seasonal farmers.

Most of the structures still visible at the site are from the Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad periods. The major remains at the site are the Temple of Hercules, a Byzantine church, and the Umayyad Palace. The Jordan Archaeological Museum was built on the hill in 1951. Though the fortification walls enclose the heart of the site, the ancient periods of occupation covered large areas. Historic structures, tombs, arches, walls and stairs have no modern borders, and therefore there is considerable archaeological potential at this site, as well as in surrounding lands, and throughout Amman.

[jordanandegypt]

Exploring Amman

September 14, 2024

Salam

Today the 8 of us under the leadership of our of fine trip leader, Nader, set out to discover Amman, a city of 5 million people that has been constantly inhabited for the last 10,000 years.  No easy task - but luckily we had all day.  So much to learn, to understand and to explore.   Of course I’m being facitious as it would take years to just study of history of this city - but we will try to get what we can with the time we have.

Amman is a city of hills - 7 to be exact.  Amman, Jordan is the world’s oldest constantly inhabited city, and if historical records are anything to go by, there have been people living in the region since 7250 BCE.  We drove around a tiny bit of this huge city and headed to the Citadel.  WOWZA!!   Most of the structures still visible at the site are from the Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad periods.  The major remains at the site are the Temple of Hercules, a Byzantine church, and the Umayyad Palace.  

Behold the Roman Temple of Hercules.

I’m not going to lie here - I never heard of the Umayyad period - so it took some time for me to put this into my brain.

From Britannica:

Umayyad dynasty, (661–750) First great Muslim dynasty. It was founded by Muʿāwiyah I, who triumphed over the Prophet Muhammad’s son-in-law, ʿAlī, to become the fifth caliph. He moved the capital from Medina to Damascus and used the Syrian army to extend the Arab empire. The Umayyads’ greatest period was under Abd al-Malik (r. 685–705), when their empire extended from Spain to Central Asia and India. Their decline began with a defeat by the Byzantine Empire in 717

The roof is new - really new 1998!

The Byzantine church

As we have witnessed around the world, the conquering group destroys the conquered's most sacred building and rebuilds atop the ruins.  Nothing new here and we could see the different “level” in the work that is on-going on the Citadel.  Most of of the damage that we saw on The Citadel was from a major earthquake in 749 CE.

The Citadel has a wonderful very small museum and I enjoyed it greatly.  The following info is really for me - because this museum laid out by “ages.”  It was no surprise to see lots of artifacts from every “age."

These are the archaeological ages generally cited, particularly as they pertain to human history in the Middle/Near East:

Stone Age—2,000,000 to 3300 b.c.e.

Palaeolithic—2,000,000 to 10,000

Neolithic—10,000 to 5000

Chalcolithic/Copper Age—5000 to 3300

Bronze Age—3300 to 1200 b.c.e.

Early Bronze—3300 to 2200

Middle Bronze—2200 to 1550

Late Bronze—1550 to 1200

Iron Age—1200 to 586 b.c.e.

Iron i—1200 to 1000

Iron iia—1000 to 925

Iron iib—925 to 586

As I mentioned people have been in this area a VERY long time.

This little guy is from 6500 BCE!

BUT before I go on it is necessary for us to understand the following terms and how these “terms" plays into the history of Jordan.

The Lavent - literally meaning the lands east of the Mediterranean Sea - including Crypus.  Dark green in the picture below.

The Fertile Crescent

The Ottoman Empire

Colonization

OK - so what is up with the maps?  All of these maps are the land mass “Jordan” but the country of Jordan with its current day borders are new -  1946.

I lifted the info below from Wiki and I’m leaving in some of the links.  The reason I added this is to give you an idea of the long and complex history of this region.

Modern-day Jordan has been inhabited by humans since the Paleolithic period. Three kingdoms emerged in Transjordan at the end of the Bronze Age: Ammon, Moab and Edom. In the third century BC, the Arab Nabataeans established their kingdom centered in Petra. Later rulers of the Transjordan region include the Assyrian, Babylonian, Roman, Byzantine, Rashidun, Umayyad, Abbasid, and the Ottoman empires. After the 1916 Great Arab Revolt against the Ottomans during World War I, the Greater Syria region was partitioned, leading to the establishment of the Emirate of Transjordan in 1921, which became a British protectorate. In 1946, the country gained independence and became officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

The entire concept of “nationalism” is also new.  Prior to the establishment of “borders” - something the people in the region had little to do with - there was no such things as a “Jordanian.”  Nader told us that while his generation embraces being “Jordanian” his grandparents had no such belief.  

The Flag

The flag explained: 

Remember the official name is The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan - but the “region” that became Jordan was part of several caliphates over the years.  More maps…

The flag honors the history of the “Jordanians”. The 7 pointed star is for the 7 hills of Ammon and the 7 verses of Al-Fatah - the first chapter of the Quran.  Nad told us the verses and their meaning and it is about being a good human, humble, serving others  and asking for God’s guidance.  (Of course that is my take away and I mean no disrespect if I have left out things.)

So - on to the next thing - lunch.

We were welcomed with a small cup of coffee with cardamon  - delicious.

Then lots of bread and dips.  The hummus is out of this world!!!

We finished with barbecued lamb, chicken and kabobs.

Next we headed back to the hotel for some down time.  On the way we talked about water.  It is scare and very expensive.  All the buildings have water tanks.

The water tanks are filled by the city/region/municipalities on a certain schedule - usually one week, but where Nad lives it is every 3 weeks.  The tanks are metered and depending on the area and height of the building an additional water pump might be necessary to get the water to the tanks.  The plumbing for the water fill is internal. Water pressure remains a problem that prohibits the water from being free flowing. Water charges vary depending on usage and sometimes it is necessary to buy water from a water truck at a much higher rate.  The amount of tanks you get depends on the size of the family living in the home.  In Michigan, we take unlimited access of clean water for granted - no doubt -  and being in a region where water is so limited makes me appreciate that luxury.

Mark and I opted for naps during our downtime and then a short walk to around the hotel grounds and pool.  

At 18:00 we headed down to old town to experience the market and do a little people watching.  LOVE IT!

My conclusion:  Lots of smokers!!  Nad told us about 25% of women smoke and 50% of men.  I never saw a woman smoking during our walk.  Smoking - FYI - is allowed in restaurants!  🤮.   Variations on clothing range from supper conservative - to western ware but still quite modest.  We saw woman wearing niqab, chador and hijab head coverings - but most often it was the hijab.  

They come in lots of beautiful colors and prints.  We also saw plenty of women wearing no head covering.  

Men - just looked like men, wearing whatever they wished although we did see a few men wearing a Thobe.

All were shopping and seemingly enjoying theirselves. Again - I see we have more alike than different

We saw a Mosque that has been in use for centuries and we were lucky enough to be standing right in front of it as call to prayer was announced.

We finished the evening in a little restaurant that specialized in falafel.  Let me just say YUM - and although I can’t have any of the bread options, I am not going hungry and trying to deal with my hatred toward my fellow travelers who are mopping up all the wonderful side dishes with their wonderfully smelling bread. (Just kidding - kinda)

I’m not sure when we got home - but we were tired.  I did some research of things I had experienced during the day - then went to bed.  Our first full day in Jordan was spectacular!!

Salam.

[joeledsouza-12]

5 Places to visit in Jordan for the first timers

Jordan is a captivating destination for first-time visitors, offering a blend of ancient history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. From the iconic Petra, known as "Rose City," to the surreal desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, Jordan presents a wide variety of experiences. The Dead Sea, with its mineral-rich waters and spa resorts, provides relaxation and rejuvenation, while Amman, the capital, offers a lively mix of modernity and historical treasures. For history lovers, Jerash’s remarkably preserved Roman ruins are a must-see. Jordan's diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming hospitality make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking adventure, history, and relaxation all in one trip. It’s a land of wonders waiting to be explored. 

Here are some places to visit in Jordan for first timers.

1. Petra: The Historic Rose City:

The most famous site in Jordan is Petra, which is among the New Seven Wonders of the World and a must-see for travelers arriving for the first time. Petra, a large archaeological site that stretches back to the 4th century BC, is dubbed the "Rose City" due to its pink-hued rock formations. Soaring majestically out of the sandstone cliffs, the Treasury (Al-Khazneh) is the city's most well-known landmark. The Roman Theater, the Street of Facades, and the Monastery (Ad-Deir) are also open for exploration by guests. Exploring this ancient city is made even more magical by hiking through the Siq, a narrow gorge that leads to Petra.

2. Wadi Rum: The Scenery of the Martian Desert:

Wadi Rum, sometimes referred to as the Valley of the Moon, is a breathtaking desert region that has enthralled both adventurers and filmmakers. Its soaring rock formations, starry night skies, and red sand dunes all combine to create an otherworldly, odd atmosphere. Experience the complete splendor of this UNESCO World Heritage site with hot air balloon rides, camel rides, or Jeep tours for first-time visitors. Wadi Rum also provides a special chance to stay in a Bedouin camp, where you can take advantage of traditional hospitality, eat real Jordanian food, and watch the stars in a peaceful desert setting.

3. The Natural Wonder of the Dead Sea:

For visitors to Jordan for the first time, a must-see attraction is the Dead Sea, which is the lowest point on Earth. The Dead Sea is well-known for its extraordinarily salty waters, which make it easy to float, as well as its mineral-rich mud, which is thought to have healing qualities. Indulge in spa services or just unwind by floating in the tranquil waters. The resorts in the area provide opulent amenities like restaurants, spas, and swimming pools, making it the ideal place to unwind and revive. The distinct weather and breathtaking scenery of the Dead Sea offer a striking contrast to Jordan's other desert regions.

4. Amman: A Fusion of Modern and History:

Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a dynamic city that skillfully combines the past and present. There are plenty of attractions for first-time visitors, ranging from bustling markets and modern restaurants to ancient ruins. Situated atop one of Amman's seven hills, the Citadel provides an insight into the city's extensive past, featuring the Umayyad Palace and the Roman Temple of Hercules. The magnificence of the ancient city is on display at the Roman Theater, another well-known landmark. There are bustling souks (markets) in downtown Amman where you can purchase traditional Jordanian goods, handicrafts, and spices. The upscale Abdoun district offers chic eateries, shops, and cafes for a taste of modern Jordan.

5. Jerash: The Eastern Roman Ruins:

Known as the "Pompeii of the East," Jerash is among the best-preserved Roman cities found outside of Italy. History buffs should not miss this ancient city, which is only an hour's drive from Amman. The magnificent Hadrian's Arch, the Hippodrome, and the Temple of Artemis are just a few examples of the site's remarkable Roman architecture. As you stroll through Jerash's colonnaded streets, you can almost feel the ancient civilizations that once called this place home. Every summer, Jerash hosts the annual Festival of Culture and Arts, which offers a distinctive cultural experience by bringing the ruins to life with music, dance, and theatre performances.

Conclusion:

Jordan offers a perfect mix of historical, natural, and cultural experiences for first-time visitors. From the ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum and the healing waters of the Dead Sea, Jordan has something for every traveler. Amman’s lively markets and Jerash’s Roman ruins add to the country's diverse attractions. Before planning your trip, ensure you have your Jordan visa, which is necessary for entry. Whether you're exploring ancient history or indulging in natural beauty, Jordan's warmth and hospitality will make your visit unforgettable. This stunning country is an ideal destination for those seeking adventure, history, and relaxation in one journey.

[malaysiatravelagency]

Experience Jordan: A Journey Through Ancient Civilizations and Natural Beauty"

Jordan, a captivating blend of ancient civilizations, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality, offers travelers a truly enriching experience. This Middle Eastern gem, known for its rich history and unique natural wonders, is a destination that promises adventure and cultural immersion at every turn.

Begin your journey in Amman, Jordan’s vibrant capital. Here, you can explore the Citadel, home to the Roman Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace, which offer stunning views of the city. A short walk takes you to the Roman Amphitheatre, an ancient relic that still hosts cultural performances today. Stroll through Amman’s lively streets and bustling markets, where you can savor traditional Jordanian dishes like mansaf and falafel.

No trip to Jordan is complete without visiting the UNESCO World Heritage site of Petra, famously known as the "Rose City." Hidden within the rugged mountains, Petra’s rock-cut architecture is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Walk through the narrow Siq, a gorge that leads to the breathtaking Treasury, and explore ancient tombs, temples, and pathways. The grandeur of Petra speaks volumes of Jordan’s historical significance as a crossroads of ancient civilizations.

For those seeking adventure, Wadi Rum offers an unforgettable desert experience. Known for its red sand dunes and towering rock formations, Wadi Rum is ideal for jeep tours, hiking, and camel treks. Spending the night in a Bedouin camp under a star-filled sky provides a glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle and the region’s cultural traditions.

Another must-visit destination is the Dead Sea, where you can float effortlessly in the mineral-rich waters. Renowned for its therapeutic properties, the Dead Sea is perfect for a relaxing retreat. Jordan also offers the hidden gem of Aqaba, a coastal city along the Red Sea, where travelers can enjoy snorkeling and diving in crystal-clear waters.

Conclusion

Jordan offers a captivating journey through time, from the ancient wonders of Petra and Jerash to the natural beauty of Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea. Its unique blend of history, culture, and adventure makes it a destination like no other. Whether you're exploring archaeological treasures or enjoying desert landscapes, Jordan invites you to experience a rich and rewarding adventure.

[shayanmotamedi]

Top Attractions for Travelers Visiting Jordan

Jordan is a land sacred to many faiths. Located east of Jerusalem, it provides religiously significant places for Christians, Muslims, and Jews. According to the Bible, Moses glimpsed the Promised Land from one of Jordan's mountains before his death. Today, pilgrims visit this same peak to honor Moses and follow in his footsteps.

Amman, Jordan's vibrant capital, showcases a fusion of antiquity and modernity. The cityscape features striking skyscrapers that contrast beautifully with traditional gold-domed mosques. Must-see attractions include the massive Roman amphitheater where grand events were once held, surviving pillars from the Temple of Hercules, and ruins from the 4th century Umayyad palace. Venturing to the so-called Rainbow Street in downtown Amman immerses visitors in the bustling cafes, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

Over an hour from Amman lies Jerash, home to some of the most impressive Roman ruins in the Eastern world. Once called Gerasa, this city features paved roads and treasures such as the decorative columns of the Roman Forum and Temple of Zeus, best viewed from the summit. Ongoing excavations have uncovered much of this white-stone city, giving a rare glimpse into the Roman times. Other sites include the Grand Hadrian's Arch entranceway, the Hippodrome arena for chariot races, and the Jerash Museum.

The ancient city of Petra, once the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom over 2,000 years ago, is Jordan's top attraction. Also called the Red City due to its sandstone surroundings, Petra earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status for its immense historical and archaeological value. This entire city was carved out of rose-colored cliffs, revealing stunning architecture.

Visitors pass through a narrow kilometer-long gorge with towering rust-colored walls called the Siq, which leads to the iconic treasure-inspired facade of ad-Deir, also known as The Monastery. Beyond The Monastery lies a sprawling expanse of temples, tombs, theaters, and other structures sculpted from rose-red rock.

In southern Jordan, Wadi Rum is a stunning desert valley that captivates visitors with its vast sandstone and granite cliffs, striking landscapes, and towering rock formations spanning the horizon. This unique setting offers adventurous travelers and hikers one of the top rock-climbing spots in the region. Visitors can also explore the desert expanse on camelback tours and sleep under the starry skies while camping overnight. A full day spent amidst the scenery lets guests witness the changing hues of the rust-toned rocks as the sun travels across the sky.

Nestled high in northern Jordan's hills overlooking the Sea of Galilee is the lush town of Umm Qais, also called Gadara. Its green landscape stands distinct from the surrounding desert environs. Within it lies well-preserved ruins spanning many eras, including Roman-era streets and two impressive theaters.

The town's main attractions are the hilltop vistas showcasing sweeping views of the Jordan Valley, Galilee Lake, Syria, and Israel. Biblically, Umm Qais is known as the location where Jesus once cast out demons from two men into a herd of pigs, as recounted in the passage of the "Miracle of the Gadarene Swine."

No trip to Jordan is complete without visiting the Dead Sea. As the lowest point on land globally, over 1200 feet below sea level, this geographical marvel derives its name from the lack of marine life. Its high-saline waters permit bathing visitors to float effortlessly while enjoying the scenery. Visitors can also indulge in rejuvenating experiences such as soaking in mineral-dense waters or applying its therapeutic mud, renowned for detoxifying and exfoliating properties. Leisurely boat rides across the sea's calming surface while absorbing expansive views offer visitors an even more indulgent encounter.

[worldtouradvicetravel]

TRAVEL PACKAGE JORDAN AND EGYPT, START FROM JORDAN

TRAVEL PACKAGE JORDAN AND EGYPT, START FROM JORDAN

Beautiful Egypt and Jordan tours are available. Discover Petra, one of the new seven wonders of the world, which gives you a memorable experience to experience the traditional lifestyle of people and enjoy relaxing and exciting activities in the beautiful desert. Get a magical experience to enter this hidden city through a long, narrow Siq, scout the amazing carved structures made by Human hands, get the chance to try horseback riding to the entrance of the canyon, and Camels are available for hire inside Petra.

Discover our incredible JORDAN AND EGYPT TRAVEL PACKAGE, START FROM JORDAN, Visit the most notable sites between Petra and Cairo. Explore beautiful Petra Cairo's charm and beauty. Visit the most popular tourist destination in Jordan, Petra City, Mount Nebo, Madaba, and float in the Dead Sea's saline water.

Enjoy the Best Egypt Tours Package Tours From Jordan, Enjoy the splendour of the Cairo to Jordan Package, on a fantastic tour from Cairo to Petra. Jordan, home to the breathtaking Rose City of Petra, will captivate your gaze as you stroll amid monuments and touch history.

Travel Package Jordan And Egypt, Travel To Jordan,Visit Amman, Petra, Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, then travel From Jordan To Egypt To Visit Sinai, Cairo, then Nile Cruise

Itinerary

Jordan And Egypt Tour Itinerary Departure: Every Day Length : 16 Days Type: Sightseeing Travel Package Egypt & Jordan Guide : Private English speaking tour guide Price: Tour itinerary : Travel Package, Egypt & Jordan

Day 1: Arrival Amman - Jordan Our tour representative will meet and assist you at Amman Airport. Then transfer to the hotel in Amman, check in, rest of the day free. as the first day was planned without activities or tours, because it is not determinited your arrival time to Amman.But in case that your arrival time to Amman will be early there are plenty of tours to do in Amman city. Please check Our Egypt excursions & day tours, you will find there also Amman day tours.

Day 2: Amman City Tour - Jerash - Amman Enjoy your breakfast in hotel in Amman, before starting a city tour in Amman, your tour guide will take you to visit the Citadel hill with the Temple of Hercules and the splendid Archaeological Museum, the Roman Theater in Amman downtown.transfer towards Jerash North of Amman, visit the best preserved Roman provincial city in all Middle East. you will see there the old Colonnaded Street and the famous Temple of Artemis. then transfer back to Amman hotel. ( B )

Day 3: Amman - Dead Sea - Kerak - Petra Breakfast, then start the tour , driving along the spectacular King s Highway, which is an old caravan route,on your way to go to Petra in southern Jordan. On the way from Amman to Petra have you will take a short break at the Dead Sea,the lowest place on our planet, enjoy the surrounding or float in the unique salted waters. Then transfer to Kerak to visit the Crusader castle, built in 1142 . Overnight in Petra. ( B ) Day 4: Petra Breakfast, then a whole day in an unforgettable walk through the narrow canyon, which forms the dramatic entrance to the city (the siq) until you round the final corner and are greeted by the unforgettable view of the extraordinary Façade of the Treasury building. Our guide will give a brief history of this city that the Nabateans carved from the living rock of the surrounding mountains. The site is large, but you can set your own pace depending on the weather and the interests of the group. We return to our hotel in Petra town,Overnight in Petra. ( B )

Day 5: Petra - Wadi Rum - Aqaba In the morning we will enjoy a Jeep Tour in the spectacular desert of Wadi Rum, Wadi Rum is a protected area covering 720 square kilometers of dramatic desert wilderness in the south of Jordan. Huge mountains of sandstone and granite. The jeeps bring us to Nabataean inscriptions, sand dunes and canyons, then transfer to Aqaba, free time for leisure on the Red Sea, overnight in Aqaba. ( B )

Day 6: Aqaba - Nuweiba - Saint. Catherine Free time at Aqaba,transfer to Aqaba port, board a ferry to cross the Gulf of Aqaba to Nuweiba in Egypt. The ferry boat is simple, with air-conditioning and airline style seats. (running time 1 hour). in Nuweibah you will find our tour representative waiting for you, then drive to Saint. Catherine monastery, which is located on foot of Mount Sinai for overnight.

Day 7: St. Catherine - Mount Moses- Cairo Early in the morning, around 2 am, meet your local tour guide to start the tour ascending to the top of Moses Mountain in Sinai. which is venerated as the mountain on which Moses spoke with God & received the ten commandments. It seems strange, almost, to speak of a mountain like Mt. Sinai in clinical terms. There is so much mystery surrounding the mountain, so much spiritual projection and adulation, that one can easily forget that it is, after all, a mountain, and climbing it requires an individual to be in moderate shape. It takes about 3 hours to climb the mountain, but you will be rewarded by a spectacular sunrise and amazing views 7,498-foot peak following the Path of Moses, a stairway of nearly 4,000 steps. There is a longer, less strenuous route up the opposite side, though it is less scenic. In both cases, one should bring good hiking shoes and plenty of water. Later you visit the Saint Catherine Monastery. drive to your Sharm ElSheikh hotel, overnight in Sharm ( B.D )

Day 8: Sharm El Sheikh Free day for leisure and red sea activities in Sharm overnight in Sharm. (B.D)

Day 9: Travel from Sharm to Cairo Breakfast in Sharm El Sheikh then drive to Cairo, upon arrival to Cairo, go to check in hotel, at night attend sound and light show in Pyramids area, & dinner in traditional restaurant before back to hotel, overnight hotel in Cairo. (B.D )

Day 10: Pyramids - City Tour Cairo Breakfast at the hotel, then enjoy an excursion to the Pyramids of Giza,Cheops Chephren and Mykerinus,proceed tour to the Greatest statue of one piece in world, the Sphinx,then the Valley Temple, papyrus institute, lunch, then visit Dahshur bent & red pyramids, then back to hotel, overnight in Cairo hotel. (B,D)

Day 11: Cairo - Aswan Enjoy your breakfast in hotel,meet our tour representative transfer to Cairo Airport to fly to Aswan. Meet our tour representative at Aswan airport, direct transfer to your Nile Cruise for embarkation before lunch. Start Aswan sightseeing tours accompanied by your Egyptology tour guide visit Aswan High Dam, then unfinished obelisk of queen Hatshepsut in Ancient Egypt Granite Quarries, tour to Philae temple. Dinner and overnight in Aswan. (B, L, D)

Day 12: Kom Ombo - Edfu - Esna Your cruise will sail to Kom Ombo to visit Kom Ombo Temple which is shared by two gods Sobek and Haeroris. After the tour back to cruise to enjoy your lunch, continue sailing to Edfu, then a tour to Horus Temple, or the falcon god temple. In the afternoon sailing to Esna, dinner and overnight on board. (B, L, D)

Day 13: Karnak - Luxor Breakfast and lunch on board your Nile cruise, then guided tour to visit Luxor East Bank, visit Karnak and Luxor temples, shopping tour, then transfer back to your Nile cruise for afternoon tea and dinner on board of the cruise. (B, L, D)

Day 14: Luxor West bank - Cairo Enjoy your breakfast before disembarkation, guided tour to visit Luxor West Bank , the Valley of the Kings, Queen Hatshepsut temple at El Deir EL Bahari and free time to take photos of Memnone statue. Transfer to Luxor airport to fly back to Cairo, meet and assist and transfer from Cairo airport to the hotel for overnight. (B)

Day 15: Cairo Tour Enjoy your breakfast before meeting your tour guide to start a tour to visit the Egyptian Museum, displaying a rare collection of 5000 years of Egyptian art. Over 165,000 genuine artifacts are presented.then tour to Islamic Cairo,visit Ibn Tolun mosque, Walking tour in the old streets & old markets in El Hussein, El Gamalyia, El Ghouri areas, lunch, then back to hotel. Overnight Cairo hotel. (B,L)

Day 16: Departure from Cairo After breakfast, Transfer to Cairo Airport for final departure. ( B )

Jordan And Egypt Tour Highlights : -Amman City Tour - Jerash - Dead Sea - Kerak -Wadi Rum - Petra - Saint. Catherine - Mount Moses - Red Sea in Sharm El Sheikh - Giza and Dahsur pyramids - Egyptian museum - Islamic Cairo - Luxor attractions - Aswan attractions - Edfu & Kom Ombo temples

Included

- Pick up  service from Queen Alia Airport by our tour operator - All transport airports - All tours in Jordan and Egypt depending on the flight - All tours by modern AC trolleys - Transfer from Jordan to Egypt by boat ferry - Two nights stay in Amman - Accommodation for 2 nights at Petra Breakfast - Accommodation for one night in Aqaba - One night stay in Saint Catherine breakfast and dinner - Accommodation in Sharm El Sheikh Breakfast and dinner - 3 nights stay in Cairo B.B - Staying 3 nights on a Nile cruise ship from Aswan to Luxor full stay - All entrance fees to all places mentioned - A professional tour guide during all-day tours - Transfer Sharm El Sheikh by car or flight to your request - Internal flight from Cairo to Aswan and Luxor to Cairo

Excluded

- Optional tours - Tipping, Recommended but not obligatory - Anything not mentioned - Beverages and not mentioned meals

 For more info

·         amanywaw@gmail.com

·         Website

·         https://www.worldtouradvice.com/

·         Mobile and what’s App:

·         002 01090023837

[egyptonlinetours1]

Egypt and Jordan Tour Package ( 11 Nights )

Egypt and Jordan Tour Package ( 11 Nights )

Tour Package to Beautiful Egypt and Jordan (11 Nights) Discover Petra, one of the new seven wonders of the world, which gives you a memorable experience to experience the traditional lifestyle of people and enjoy relaxing and exciting activities in the beautiful desert. Get a magical experience to enter this hidden city through a long, narrow Siq, scout the amazing carved structures made by Human hands, get the chance to try horseback riding to the entrance of the canyon, and Camels are available for hire inside Petra.

When in Cairo, you must tour the Giza Pyramids, Memphis, and Sakkara will transport you even further back in time, and visiting Old Cairo will transport you spiritually to the Coptic and Islamic eras via Egypt Tours and Jordan. Holidays Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a contemporary metropolis with several historic sites. The 8th-century Umayyad Palace complex, notable for its imposing dome, and the pillars of the Roman Temple of Hercules are both part of the historic Citadel perched atop Jabal al-Qala'a hill.

Overview

Egypt and Jordan Tour Package with Maestro Online Travel, a historical Journey to explore the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Jordan. Visit the Pyramids of Giza, Nile River cruise with thrilling tours between Luxor and Aswan, The tour extends to the city of Petra in Jordan, with Jeep safari tour to the famous Wadi Rum, swim in the Dead Sea during our Egypt Travel Package to Jordan.

Days 1: Arrival Cairo

Arrival Cairo international airport, meet & assist by Maestro Online Travel representative who will help you in handling all your procedures through passport control , customs formalities & luggage area, then transfer you to your hotel via air conditioned modern vehicle & overnight in Cairo .

Day 2: Pyramids – Egyptian Museum – Old Cairo

Breakfast at your hotel enjoying a full day tour to visit the enigmatic Pyramids of Giza of King Cheops, Chefren, Mykernuis, Sphinx & Valley temple which are the most famous monuments of ancient Egypt, you can feel the mysteries surrounding their symbolism & design, then proceed your fantastic tour to visit the Egyptian antiquities museum commonly known as the Egyptian Museum which located in the capital city of Cairo, where you can see the most extensive collection of ancient antiquities & the famous golden mask of Tutankhamun among other amazing pharaonic artifacts.Finally continue your tour to visit OldCairo ( Mary Gerges church, Hanging church, Ben Ezra Synagogue ) then back to your hotel & overnight in Cairo.

Day 3: Aswan – Felucca

Breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Cairo airport for departure to Aswan by flight. Upon arrival Aswan airport, meet & assist by our representative, enjoy a felucca ride on the Nile River around Elephantine Island, overnight in Aswan.

Day 4: High Dam – Unfinished Obelisk & Philae

Breakfast at your hotel to enjoy visiting the High Dam which is one of the world’s largest dams & its lake is the second in the world, spread to Sudan, Unfinished Obelisk which is constructed out of the syenite granite mined in Aswan & Philae temple which dedicated to the goddess Isis, at night transfer to Aswan train station for departure to Luxor, then arrive Luxor train station, meet & assist by our representative, transfer to your hotel & overnight in Luxor.

Day 5: East Bank - Karnak & Luxor temples

Breakfast at your hotel, enjoy a visit to Karnak temple the largest temple in the world dedicated to Amun, the pharaohs of the middle kingdom built the oldest structures, the latest ones were added during the Ptolemaic period, the most outstanding features are the white Chapel of Sesostris I & the Great Hypo style hall with its 134 huge columns, a long dorms lined by Sphinx statues connected Karnak temple to Luxor temple, which is lying 3 km to the south of Karnak & was built for Mut, during the Opet (new year festival) Amun headed the procession starting from Karnak temple & joined his wife Mut in Luxor temple, the main structures were built by Amenophis III and Ramses II, then back to your hotel & overnight .

Day 6: West Bank – Valley of Kings, Hatshepsut temple – Colossi of Memnon

Breakfast at your hotel, enjoying a visit to the west bank which was a magnificent burial ground for the pharaohs, the Valley of Kings was the kingdom of Osiris, god of the underworld, from their grand tombs filled with treasures & decorated with amazing art, the Egyptian pharaohs believed they would embark on a journey in which they would meet the gods in the afterlife & achieve immortality, proceeding to visit the temple of Queen Hatshepsut at El Deir El Bahari & ending by Colossi of Memnon , at evening transfer to Luxor train station for departure back to Cairo by first class sleeping train & overnight (Dinner & Breakfast will be served on board)

Day 7: Arrival Giza – Optional Sound & Light Show

Arrival Giza train station, meet & assist by our representative , transfer to your hotel for refreshment and a free day in Cairo or an Optional tour to visit to attend Sound & Light show at pyramids area, it’s an enchanting experience not to be missed, you may never know exactly how the magnificent pyramids were built, the riddle of Sphinx may remain one of the world’s oldest mysteries. Back to your hotel & overnight in Cairo

Day 8: Taba

Breakfast at your hotel, drive via air conditioned modern vehicle to Taba, have a relaxing time, dinner & overnight in Taba.

Day 9: Aqaba Jordan - Wadi Rum

In the morning, transfer to Nuweiba marina, take the ferry boat to Aqaba. Arrive Aqaba port, driving to Wadi Rum where we will start by Bedouin Jeeps in the village and drive first to Lawrence's Spring and then to the sand dunes in Wadi Rum Ishrin where you can also see some Nabatean inscriptions. Transfer to your hotel in Petra & overnight.

Day 10: Petra City Tour

Breakfast at your hotel, visit the rose red city, the city of the Nabateans. Go through the Siq (canyon), then walk through the canyon and enjoy the beautiful carvings of statues, idols and niches on the way to the treasury. After treasury starting from a point close to the theatre, the Path to the high place of sacrifice. The High Place itself has been carved flat, and drainage channels have been cut into the rock to allow the blood of sacrificial animals to drain away. After that going down along the facades street to the Roman theatre, royal tombs, the Roman colonnaded street. Overnight in Petra.

Day 11: Petra, Cairo

Breakfast at your hotel, Free time in Petra. Afternoon, drive to Aqaba port to take the ferry boat to Nuweiba. Meet & assist at Nuweiba port, drive back to Cairo. Overnight in Cairo

For more info

info@egyptonlinetours.com

https://www.egyptonlinetours.com/

[jordanmwblog]

Explore Jordan's Majestic Castles on a Private Tour

Nestled in the heart of the Middle East, Jordan is a country rich in history, culture, and breathtaking landscapes. Beyond its famous UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Petra and the Dead Sea, Jordan hides a treasure trove of majestic castles waiting to be explored. A private tour of these ancient fortifications promises an unforgettable journey through time, where visitors can immerse themselves in the stories of kings, conquerors, and civilizations that once thrived within their walls. In this article, we will take you on a virtual tour of some of Jordan’s most spectacular castles, offering insights into their historical significance and highlighting the benefits of embarking on a private tour.

1. The Desert Castles of Jordan

Jordan’s desert castles, scattered across the eastern desert regions, stand as a testament to the brilliance of early Islamic architecture and the sophisticated lifestyle of the Umayyad caliphs who ruled during the 7th and 8th centuries. These castles were not only defensive fortresses but also served as hunting lodges, caravan stations, and palatial retreats.

The Qasr Amra, also known as the “Desert Palace,” is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most famous desert castles. Adorned with stunning frescoes depicting scenes from daily life, mythology, and astrology, it offers a captivating glimpse into the past.

A private tour of the desert castles allows visitors to explore these ancient marvels at their own pace. Expert guides provide in-depth knowledge of the architecture and historical context, transporting travelers to a bygone era.

2. The Citadel of Amman

Perched atop one of the city’s many hills, the Citadel of Amman is an archaeological site with a history dating back to the Bronze Age. The site boasts Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad ruins, making it a layered testament to Jordan’s rich and diverse past.

A private tour of the Citadel allows for a personalized experience. Visitors can admire the Temple of Hercules, the Umayyad Palace, and the Roman Theater, all while listening to the stories of the rise and fall of empires that once shaped the region.

3. Kerak Castle

A journey southwards leads to the imposing Kerak Castle, a fortified stronghold perched on a hilltop. Built during the Crusader period in the 12th century, Kerak Castle played a pivotal role in the conflicts between the Crusaders and the Muslim armies.

Exploring the vast complex of Kerak Castle on a private tour offers the chance to delve into the medieval history of the region. From the maze-like underground passages to the strategic battlements, visitors can gain insights into the challenges faced by the defenders and the military architecture of the time.

4. Ajloun Castle

Nestled in the lush hills of northern Jordan, Ajloun Castle stands as a symbol of resistance against the Crusaders’ expansion. This Islamic fortress was strategically positioned to guard against potential invasions from the west.

A private tour of Ajloun Castle allows visitors to admire the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, while expert guides recount the historical significance of the castle’s role in defending the region from Crusader attacks.

5. Shobak Castle

Also known as “Montreal,” Shobak Castle is a lesser-known gem, yet no less impressive than its counterparts. Built by the Crusader king Baldwin I in the 12th century, the castle was a vital link in the defensive chain against Muslim forces.

A private tour of Shobak Castle offers a chance to step back in time and immerse oneself in the intriguing tales of battles and sieges that occurred within its walls. With fewer crowds, visitors can soak in the historical atmosphere and take stunning photographs of this remarkable fortress.

6. Umm Qais

Umm Qais, once known as Gadara, is an ancient Greco-Roman city located in the northwestern corner of Jordan. While not strictly a castle, the site houses the remains of a Roman theater, mausoleum, and basilica.

A private tour of Umm Qais provides an opportunity to explore the ancient ruins in-depth, without feeling rushed. Guides can narrate the city’s transformation from Roman to Byzantine, and eventually to Islamic rule, making it a captivating historical journey.

Conclusion

A private tour of Jordan’s majestic castles promises an extraordinary adventure, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the rich history and architectural brilliance of the region. From the desert castles with their exquisite frescoes to the imposing fortresses that stood the test of time, each castle offers a unique glimpse into Jordan’s past. With expert guides to provide historical context and personalized experiences, travelers can uncover the secrets of these ancient sites, fostering a deeper appreciation for the country’s captivating heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or simply a curious traveler, exploring Jordan’s castles on a private tour is an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Visit us

https://jordanmw.com/explore-jordans-majestic-castles-on-a-private-tour/

[travelsoftheworld01]

The Best Places to Visit in Jordan: A Journey of Timeless Beauty

Introduction:

Jordan, a captivating country in the heart of the Middle East, is a treasure trove of historical sites, natural wonders, and warm hospitality. Steeped in rich culture and boasting breathtaking landscapes, Jordan is a must-visit destination for travelers seeking an extraordinary experience. In this blog post, we will explore the best places to visit in Jordan , from the iconic ancient city of Petra to the stunning desert landscapes of Wadi Rum. Get ready to embark on a journey of timeless beauty!

Petra: The Rose City:

No visit to Jordan is complete without exploring the mesmerizing city of Petra. Carved into the rose-colored sandstone cliffs, this UNESCO World Heritage site is an architectural masterpiece and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Begin your adventure by walking through the narrow Siq, a dramatic canyon that leads to the Treasury, Petra's most famous monument. As you wander through this ancient city, discover intricately carved tombs, temples, and a Roman theater, all testaments to the once-flourishing Nabatean civilization.

Wadi Rum: The Martian Landscape:

Prepare to be transported to another world as you venture into the otherworldly landscapes of Wadi Rum. This vast desert, with its towering sandstone mountains and rust-colored dunes, has served as a backdrop for numerous movies. Explore the rugged terrain on a thrilling 4x4 tour or embark on a camel trek to witness the magical sunset over the horizon. For an unforgettable experience, spend a night under the starry desert sky at a Bedouin camp and immerse yourself in the traditional Bedouin culture.

Dead Sea: The Lowest Point on Earth:

A visit to the Dead Sea is a unique and rejuvenating experience. Known for its high salt content, this remarkable body of water allows you to effortlessly float on its surface, providing a therapeutic and relaxing sensation. Smother yourself in the mineral-rich mud found along the shores, renowned for its healing properties. Besides indulging in the sea's extraordinary benefits, the surrounding area offers luxury resorts, spa facilities, and panoramic views of the beautiful Jordanian landscape.

Amman: The Vibrant Capital:

Amman, the capital city of Jordan, seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern flair. Explore the bustling downtown area, where you can wander through traditional markets, known as souks, and savor delicious local cuisine. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the Roman Theater, a remarkably preserved amphitheater that dates back to the 2nd century. For a panoramic view of the city, head to the Citadel, home to ancient ruins, including the Temple of Hercules.

Jerash: The Pompeii of the East:

Step back in time and discover the ancient Roman city of Jerash, often referred to as the Pompeii of the East. Wander through its well-preserved ruins, which include an oval-shaped forum, grand temples, and an impressive amphitheater. Jerash's colonnaded streets and ancient arches provide a fascinating insight into the region's Roman past. To enhance your experience, plan your visit during the annual Jerash Festival, where you can witness lively performances of traditional music, dance, and theater.

Conclusion:

Jordan's remarkable beauty and rich history make it a truly unforgettable destination. From the awe-inspiring rock-cut architecture of Petra to the dramatic desert landscapes of Wadi Rum, Jordan offers a diverse range of experiences for every traveler. Immerse yourself in the country's captivating culture, explore ancient ruins, float in the buoyant waters of the Dead Sea, and indulge in delicious cuisine. A journey through Jordan is an adventure that will leave you with memories to treasure for a lifetime.

[andrewshenouda]

A view of Amman from Temple of Hercules

[suetravelblog]

Amman Citadel and Temple of Hercules Ruins Amman Jordan

Umayyad Palace Mosque Amman Citadel is an impressive open-air archaeological complex and a must-see for anyone visiting Amman. I didn’t realize that there were several significant landmarks at the site. It’s located on the highest hilltop in Amman – Jabal Al Qala’a – one of the seven hills (jabals) that originally made-up Amman. Umayyad Palace Mosque Dome Evidence suggests that the area has been…

[dknuth]

Amman Jordan

My free day in Amman didn't go as originally planned. I neglected to check the calendar and it was Eid, the last day of Ramadan. It's a big holiday, so most things were closed, including the Jordan Museum. The town was very quiet in the morning but in the evening it was very busy. On the last day of fasting, at sundown, the restaurants and cafes were crowded.

The Roman and Arab Citadel is located directly above my hotel. It was open, so I headed up there. There are stairways up the hill, but some only go to private houses and Google Maps didn't seem to understand them, so my route up took a long way, mostly up the streets, except for a promising stair that took me part of the way up.

Jordan is one of the oldest cities in the world, with artifacts dating from 8,000 BC. The Citadel, at the high point, has been occupied for most of that time. During the iron age it was the capital of the Ammonite kingdom and was known as Rabat Aman. In the 3rd Century BC, it was conquered by Ptolemy II Philadelphus, Pharaoh of Egypt. He renamed it Philadelphia, although it's not the famous Philadelphia, that one is in Turkey. During Roman rule, it was one of the 10 cities of the Decapolis. In the 7th Century the Arabs conquered it from the Byzantines and restored the name Amman. Starting in the Middle Ages the city varied from prosperous to almost abandoned. From the 1500s to 1878 it was only a small village. At that time the Ottoman Empire made it a local capital and it grew swiftly from a population of a few thousand to over 4 million.

Before heading up I stopped off at the Roman Theater across the street. It's built into the valley wall and it is in good enough shape that it is still used.

Next to it is a small Roman theater. It probably originally had a roof and have may have been used as a parliament.

Then it was up the hill. The Citadel has a 360 view of the surrounding part of Amman. This is just halfway around!

The Theater was directly below and my hotel is on the left edge of the photo.

There are the typical Roman temples, but nothing from earlier periods. The Romans clearly cleaned off the hilltop and started fresh on their construction.

This is believed to be a temple to Hercules based on the parts of a huge statue nearby.

While the new museum in the valley was closed the smaller one in the site was open and had the most interesting things, some of the oldest human statues in the world from 8,000 BC.

The Arabs also built here, including a large palace. Only the entry hall remains standing, but it is an impressive foyer.

There are a huge number of stray cats in Amman. As the lady a the front desk of the hotel said, they are pretty quiet until February then they are very noisy and then there are new kittens in the spring. These two were just outside the door of the hotel and looked healthier than most.

In the markets, I saw a lot of these fruits that I didn't recognize.

Here they are called azkadenya, but we know them as loquats. They are very sweet, similar to a very ripe pear. They are also as tender as a very ripe pear, so wouldn't travel well. I won't look for them in Madison any time soon.

Today I'm checking out of my hotel and transferring to the hotel for the first night of the group tour. Tomorrow we head right out to the Dana Biosphere Reserve, where the hiking begins.

[jordanandegypt]

Exploring Amman

September 14, 2024

Salam

Today the 8 of us under the leadership of our of fine trip leader, Nader, set out to discover Amman, a city of 5 million people that has been constantly inhabited for the last 10,000 years.  No easy task - but luckily we had all day.  So much to learn, to understand and to explore.   Of course I’m being facitious as it would take years to just study of history of this city - but we will try to get what we can with the time we have.

Amman is a city of hills - 7 to be exact. Amman, Jordan is the world’s oldest constantly inhabited city, and if historical records are anything to go by, there have been people living in the region since 7250 BCE.  We drove around a tiny bit of this huge city and headed to the Citadel.  WOWZA!!   Most of the structures still visible at the site are from the Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad periods.  The major remains at the site are the Temple of Hercules, a Byzantine church, and the Umayyad Palace.  

Behold the RomanTemple of Hercules.

I’m not going to lie here - I never heard of the Umayyad period - so it took some time for me to put this into my brain.

From Britannica:

Umayyad dynasty, (661–750) First great Muslim dynasty. It was founded by Muʿāwiyah I, who triumphed over the Prophet Muhammad’s son-in-law, ʿAlī, to become the fifth caliph. He moved the capital from Medina to Damascus and used the Syrian army to extend the Arab empire. The Umayyads’ greatest period was under Abd al-Malik (r. 685–705), when their empire extended from Spain to Central Asia and India. Their decline began with a defeat by the Byzantine Empire in 717

The roof is new - really new 1998!

The Byzantine church

As we have witnessed around the world, the conquering group destroys the conquered building and rebuilds atop the ruins.  Nothing new here about and we could see the different “level” in the work that is on-going on the Citadel.  Most of of the damage that we saw on The Citadel was from a major earthquake in 749 CE.

The Citadel has a wonderful very small museum and I enjoyed it greatly.  The following info is really for me - because this museum laid out by “ages.”  It was no surprise to see lots of artifacts from every “age."

These are the archaeological ages generally cited, particularly as they pertain to human history in the Middle/Near East:

Stone Age—2,000,000 to 3300 b.c.e.

Palaeolithic—2,000,000 to 10,000

Neolithic—10,000 to 5000

Chalcolithic/Copper Age—5000 to 3300

Bronze Age—3300 to 1200 b.c.e.

Early Bronze—3300 to 2200

Middle Bronze—2200 to 1550

Late Bronze—1550 to 1200

Iron Age—1200 to 586 b.c.e.

Iron i—1200 to 1000

Iron iia—1000 to 925

Iron iib—925 to 586

As I mentioned people have been in this area a VERY long time.

This little guy is from 6500 BCE!!

BUT before I go on it is necessary for us to understand the following terms and how these “terms" plays into the history of Jordan.

The Lavent - literally meaning the lands east of the Mediterranean Sea - including Crypus.  Dark green in the picture below.

The Fertile Crescent

Ottoman Empire

Colonization 

OK - so what is up with the maps?  All of these maps are “Jordan” but the country of Jordan with its current day borders are new -  1946.

I lifted the info below from Wiki and I’m leaving in the links.  The reason I added this is to give you an idea of the long and complex history of this region.

Modern-day Jordan has been inhabited by humans since the Paleolithic period. Three kingdoms emerged in Transjordan at the end of the Bronze Age: Ammon, Moab and Edom. In the third century BC, the Arab Nabataeans established their kingdom centered in Petra. Later rulers of the Transjordan region include the Assyrian, Babylonian, Roman, Byzantine, Rashidun, Umayyad, Abbasid, and the Ottoman empires. After the 1916 Great Arab Revolt against the Ottomans during World War I, the Greater Syria region was partitioned, leading to the establishment of the Emirate of Transjordan in 1921, which became a British protectorate. In 1946, the country gained independence and became officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan

The entire concept of “nationalism” is also new.  Prior to the establishment of “borders” - something the people in the region had little to do with - there was no such things as a “Jordanian.”  Nader told us that while his generation embraces being “Jordanian” his grandparents had no such belief.  

The Flag

The flag explained: 

Remember the official name is The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan - but the “region” that became Jordan was part of several caliphates over the years.  More maps…

The flag honors the history of the “Jordanians”. The 7 pointed star is for the 7 hills of Ammon and the 7 verses of Al-Fatah - the first chapter of the Quran.  Nad told us the verses and their meaning and it is about being a good human, humble, serving others  and asking for God’s guidance.  (Of course that is my take away and I mean no disrespect if I have left out things.)

So - on to the next thing - lunch.

We were welcome with a small cup of coffee with cardamon  - delicious.

Then lots of bread and dips.  The hummus is out of this world!!!

We finished with barbecued lamb, chicken and kabobs.

And dessert!

Next we headed back to the hotel for some down time.  On the way we talked about water.  It was scare and very expensive.  All the buildings have water tanks.

The water tanks are filled by the city/region/municipalities on a certain schedule - usually one week, but where Nad lives it is every 3 weeks.  The tanks are metered and depending on the area and height of the building an additional water pump might be necessary to get the water to the tanks.  The plumbing for the water fill is internal. Water pressure remains a problem that prohibits the water from being free flowing. Water charges vary depending on usage and sometimes it is necessary to buy water from a water truck at a much higher rate.  The amount of tanks you get depends on the size of the family living in the home.  In Michigan, we take unlimited access of clean water for granted - no doubt -  and being in a region where water is so limited makes me appreciate that luxury.

Mark and I opted for naps during our downtime and then a short walk to around the hotel grounds and pool.  

At 18:00 we headed down to old town to experience the market and do a little people watching.  LOVE IT!

My conclusion:  Lots of smokers!!  Nad told us about 25% of women smoke and 50% of men.  I never saw a woman smoking during our walk.  Smoking - FYI - is allowed in restaurants!  🤮.   Variations on clothing range from supper conservative - to western ware but still quite modest.  We saw woman wearing niqab, chador and hijab head coverings - but most often it was the hijab.  They come in lots of beautiful colors and prints.  We also saw plenty of women wearing no head covering.  

Men - just looked like men, wearing whatever they wished although we did see a few men wearing a Thobe.

All were shopping and seemingly enjoying their selves. Again - I see we have much more in common than different.

We saw a Mosque that has been in use for centuries and we were lucky enough to be standing right in front of it as call to prayer was announced.

We finished the evening in a little restaurant that specialized in falafel.  Let me just say YUM - and although I can’t have any of the bread options, I am not going hungry and trying to deal with my hatred toward my fellow travelers who are mopping up all the wonderful side dishes with their wonderfully smelling bread. (Just kidding - kinda)

I’m not sure when we got home - but we were tired.  I did some research of things I had experienced - then went to bed.  Our first full day in Jordan was spectacular!!

Salam.