Jordan Discovery
I recently had the privilege of travelling to Jordan as a guest of Tauck Tours and the Jordanian Tourist Authority. Like most people, I associate words with people, countries etc - Paris / Eiffel Tower, Egypt / the pyramids and Jordan / Petra but this country has so much more to offer, and this is what the Jordanian Tourist authority set out to show us.
Here are some of the places not to be missed:
PETRA – of course, a visit would not be complete without going there but many people only walk as far as the Treasury; get star struck with its beauty and venture no further, turning back to take the long walk out. Past the Treasury is a vast array of ancient tombs, and churches plus the scenery is captivating too.
In the not too distant further it won’t be necessary to make the long trek back to the entrance as there are plans to open up the other end so people can continue through the whole complex. Buses will be waiting there to take you back to the starting point. This will make a huge difference and result in a less congested, more pleasant experience.
HISTORICAL NOTE
The Christian era at Petra came during the 3rd to 5th century, when the area came under Byzantine control. Although the city remained mainly pagan, there were 3 churches and a cathedral of sorts (an old tomb converted into a small cathedral). In addition, some tombs later had crosses inscribed into their walls.
JERASH – Jordan’s answer to Pompei (without the volcanic eruption).
So much of this wonderful Roman site remains intact. It is truly beautiful, and it is so easy for your mind to slip back thousands of years and imagine what it must have been like to live there. Allow at least half a day to wander around the various complexes and buildings.
HISTORICAL NOTE
In ancient times Jordan was one of the wealthiest and most cosmopolitan cities in the ancient Near East. Settled by humans as early as the Neolithic period (c. 7500-5500 BCE) and founded as a Hellenistic city in the 2nd century BCE, Jerash is today noted for its fine Roman and Byzantine ruins, which rank among the largest and best preserved in the world. Jerash is located 48 km (30 miles) north of Amman - the capital of Jordan.
WADI RUM
If you thought Uluru was spectacular, you are in for a treat when you visit Wadi Rum. Inhabited predominantly by Bedouins, the desert terrain is dotted with massive rock formations. It is worth more than just a day trip; allow 3-4 nights to cover many of the sites whilst enjoying Bedouin hospitality. We stayed at Palmera Desert Camp. The food was delicious; the accommodation ultra comfortable and the people (staff) welcoming and very friendly. There are different levels of accommodation in Wadi Rum so be careful what you choose; this is one place where you should go upmarket and make the most of an opportunity to learn about the people, the traditions, and the way of life. There are plenty of things to do and see… here are some of the attractions: -
-Lawrence’s spring: where Lawrence of Arabia reputedly washed during the Arab Revolt. Has an attractive rock inscription on nearby rocks.
-Khazali canyon: deep, narrow fissure in the mountain side, containing many rock inscriptions.
-Rock bridge: spectacular natural rock arch, with great views.
-Burrah canyon: long, deep canyon between dramatic mountains. Very beautiful in early morning or late evening when the sun turns the rock deep orange.
-Alameleh Inscriptions: good example of ancient rock drawings, showing camels and wildlife.
-Seven Pillars of Wisdom: famous landmark, named after the book by T. E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia).
-Siq Um Tawaqi: short canyon containing a carving of the head of T. E. Lawrence.
-Anfashieh inscriptions: this mountain is famous for its formations and inscription. Anfashieh has numerous Thamudic and Nabataen inscriptions, next to it drawings of animals, humans, and camel caravans.
-Nabatean Temple – Aretas (IV): Used by Nabatean to worship the Goddess, Allat. This temple was built on the ruins of Allat temple of the AAD Tribe (?d (Arabic: ???, ??d) is an ancient tribe mentioned frequently in the Qur??n. The tribe's members, referred to as ??dites.).
And then there are the spectacular sunsets (best viewed from Al Ghuroub).
Added to all the above you have places such as Mt Nebo (think the 'promised land'), dating back to the time of Moses and the Dead Sea.
Allow at least 10 days to do this wonderful country justice.