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Destination:

Amman

Lokal
temperatur
21°
Lokal
tid
23:22

Amman

Amman was first mentioned as Rabbath Ammon in the Hebrew Bible around the 10th century BCE. Although the Jordanian capital has its fair share of ancient remnants, it is the way Amman experiences modernity that fascinates the most. Often listed among the most progressive cities in the Middle East, Amman is a flourishing capital growing by the hour, inhabited by a culturally diverse and rather liberal populace.
Amman Citadel
Citadel Hill

The capital's most important historic landmark is an entire area known as the Citadel, perched on top of Amman's highest elevation — the Jabal al-Qal'a hill. Its story dates back to as early as the Bronze Age, with various epochs bringing cultures and peoples who have all left their mark here. The Citadel's two primary attractions are the ancient Temple of Hercules (162-166 AD) and the Ummayad Palace dating back to the 8th century.

The Temple of Hercules and the hand, Amman Citadel, Jordan
Roman Temple of Hercules
Amman Citadel, Museum Street 132, Amman

The so-called Temple of Hercules (AD 162–166) dominates Amman’s Citadel. These days, archaeologists prefer to call it the Great Temple of Amman, since its dedication remains uncertain. Only six Corinthian columns stand reconstructed today. The rest lie as fragmented drums, their dowel holes revealing Roman engineering techniques. A colossal marble statue once graced the site. All that survives is a weathered elbow and fingers, suggesting a figure over 13 metres tall, likely toppled in the 8th-century earthquake. The temple’s platform doubles as Amman’s premier viewpoint, framing the modern city against the 150-metre Jordanian flag. Excavations nearby expose layers of civilisation: Umayyad palaces, Byzantine churches, and Roman baths intertwine with older Bronze Age ruins. Though the Hercules name persists thanks to the sculptural remnant, archaeologists emphasise the temple’s civic importance. Its sheer scale reflects Amman’s status as a regional hub. Guides prove invaluable for deciphering 9,000 years of history compressed into a single hilltop.

bookseller in downtown Amman
Al Balad

The downtown, or Al Balad, is one's best bet for finding great bargains in Amman. The area is packed with all manner of shops and businesses, selling clothing, accessories, intricate jewellery, herbs, and various edibles. Haggling is expected — count on bringing the original price down by at least half, unless the specific locale has a fixed-price policy.

Jordan souvenirs
Jordan River Designs Showroom
Mawloud Mukhles Street, Amman

The Jordan River Foundation Design showroom stocks exquisite home decor pieces, rugs, accessories and Dead Sea cosmetics, along with a plethora of other pieces, all of the highest quality. Prices here are steep for good reason: the foundation supports women and youths from local communities, and all profits made are put towards development projects.

Queen Alia International Airport (AMM)

The Queen Alia International Airport is Jordan's primary international air hub. Passengers can take the Sariyah shuttle bus connecting the airport to Tabarbour (North) Bus Station via the Seventh Circle. These buses run every half hour from 6am to 6pm and every hour from 6pm to midnight. Journey time is normally somewhere between 45 and 60 minutes. Taxis operate on a 24/7 basis and may be easily hired at the airport. Fares are fixed and current prices displayed at the taxi park.

Passport & Visa

Nationals of most countries are eligible for a single-entry visa upon arrival. The visa process is normally quick and uncomplicated, with no paperwork involved. The upon-arrival visas are not issued at King Hussein Bridge or Wadi Araba land border crossing points. Having Israeli border crossing stamps can possibly complicate coming into or leaving Jordan. The Jordan Pass is recognised universally, and entitles the holder to a waiving of the visa fee. For multiple-entry visas, travellers will need to apply in advance prior to travel. Consult the link below to find out whether a visa is required for you.

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