A city bearing its province's name, Jerash is renowned for its archaeological sites and distinctive monuments recently unearthed from the sand. Nicknamed the Pompeii of the Near East, this locality lies on a tree-covered plain, surrounded by rolling hills. Jerash is the successor to Gerasa, an ancient Roman city with exceptional historical heritage.

The City's Chronicle

Local folklore attributes the founding of Gerasa to Alexander the Great himself. This illustrious monarch is said to have gifted the city to his veteran soldiers as thanks for their loyal service. Ancient coin inscriptions attest to this fact.

A thriving commercial hub, the city quickly became an economic center of ancient Jordan. The 3rd century marked its period of greatest prosperity. Throughout history, Jerash was conquered and occupied by numerous peoples: the Hebrews, Nabataeans, Romans, Persians, Arabs, and Crusaders.

Today, a Paradise for Archaeologists

An emerging metropolis, Jerash is home to over 120,000 residents at the time of writing. The Palestinian exodus contributed significantly to the city's exponential demographic growth.

In 1806, German explorer Ulrich Seltzen initiated archaeological excavations at Jerash. He discovered Roman and Hellenistic ruins buried in sand. The systematic search for ancient monuments officially began in 1925 and continues to this day. It must be said that research at Jerash has proven remarkably fruitful. Discoveries follow one after another. The silver lining: the passage of time and climatic conditions have not caused irreparable damage to Jerash's ancient structures. Many historical buildings have been successfully restored to their original state.

The City's Best Attractions

Hadrian's Arch

Erected in 129 AD to commemorate Emperor Hadrian's visit to Gerasa, this monumental structure was meant to serve as the city's southern gateway. The original construction works were never completed. Today, the monument has been restored according to its original plans.

The Hippodrome

This striking arena once hosted Roman chariot races and other contact sports of the era. Measuring 252 meters by 52 meters, the hippodrome could accommodate up to 15,000 spectators.

South Theatre

With a capacity of 3,000 people, this auditorium hosted the city's most important performances. It was built under the patronage of Emperor Domitian in the 1st century AD. The structure boasts exceptional acoustics. Even at the theatre's rear, spectators can hear speakers on stage with perfect clarity.

The Cathedral

This Byzantine church from the 4th century was constructed over an ancient temple dedicated to Dionysus. The only visible remains are an ornately carved portico and inscriptions related to Mary and the archangels Gabriel and Michael.

Oval Forum

Measuring 90 by 80 meters, this elliptical plaza annually hosts the torch of the Jerash Festival. Surrounded by stone columns, this architectural masterpiece from the 1st century houses two altars and remnants of a decorative fountain.

Cardo Maximus

The main thoroughfare of Gerasa, this street extends 800 meters in length. It is lined with 200 stone columns arranged in a perfectly straight line, forming a colonnade. An ingenious water drainage system runs beneath Cardo Maximus.

The Nymphaeum

Constructed in 196 AD, this decorative fountain was erected in honor of the Nymphs, feminine deities associated with nature. In antiquity, water flowed from seven lion heads into basins and channels arranged alongside.

Jerash Museum

Built in 1985, this building preserves the various artifacts discovered at Jerash. The museum's collections of ancient objects are displayed in chronological order.

Practical Information

Best Time to Visit

If summer's intense heat or winter's cold temperatures are uncomfortable for you, consider visiting during spring or autumn. Most tourists arrive in May to enjoy the pleasant weather.

Amman's Queen Alia International Airport is just 80 km from Jerash. Traveling by coach from the airport proves more economical than taking a taxi.

What You'll Love at Jerash

• Savoring local specialties: kebab, mansaf, chai...
• Exploring the city's various historical monuments on foot.
• Attending Jerash's major arts festivals in July.