Certainly, here are 17 lesser-known facts and tidbits about Amman, the capital city of Jordan:
- Ancient Roots: While Amman is a modern city, it has ancient origins. It was originally known as Philadelphia and was one of the cities of the Decapolis, a league of ten Roman cities in the eastern part of the Roman Empire.
- Hills and Valleys: Amman is characterized by its hilly terrain, with numerous valleys running through the city. It’s often referred to as the “City of Seven Hills.”
- Name Origin: The city’s name, Amman, is thought to have been derived from the term “ammoun,” which means “to settle” in the Semitic languages.
- Roman Ruins: You can find well-preserved Roman ruins in Amman, including the Roman Theater, which dates back to the 2nd century AD, and the Nymphaeum, a monumental fountain.
- Abundant Springs: Historically, Amman was known for its many springs, which provided a reliable source of water. This is reflected in its ancient name, Philadelphia, meaning “city of brotherly love.”
- Modern Capital: Amman became the capital of Jordan in 1921, replacing the former capital, Al-Salt.
- Diverse Population: The city is home to a diverse population, with residents from various backgrounds, including Palestinians, Jordanians, and expatriates from around the world.
- Abdali District: The Abdali district is a modern urban development project in the heart of Amman. It features futuristic architecture, upscale hotels, shopping malls, and cultural venues.
- Amman Citadel: The Amman Citadel is an ancient hilltop site in the heart of the city, where you can see historical remnants from the Bronze Age through the Islamic period.
- Rainbow Street: Rainbow Street is a trendy and vibrant area in Amman known for its nightlife, restaurants, and art galleries.
- Traditional Souks: While Amman has modern shopping malls, it also has traditional souks and markets where you can haggle for spices, textiles, and handmade crafts.
- Street Art: Amman has a growing street art scene, with murals and graffiti that add a colorful and artistic touch to the city’s streets.
- Education Hub: The city is home to several prestigious universities and educational institutions, making it an educational hub in the region.
- Religious Tolerance: Amman is known for its religious diversity and tolerance, with mosques, churches, and other places of worship coexisting harmoniously.
- King Hussein Mosque: The King Hussein Mosque is an iconic landmark in Amman with its distinctive blue dome and minarets.
- Traditional Cafes: The city is dotted with traditional coffee shops and tea houses known as “ahwah,” where locals gather to socialize and enjoy beverages.
- Modern Infrastructure: Amman has seen significant infrastructure development in recent years, with modern amenities and transportation systems.
Amman is a city of contrasts, blending ancient history with a modern and cosmopolitan atmosphere. It offers a unique mix of traditional culture and contemporary living, making it a fascinating destination to explore.
See also: the top activities to do in Amman
Amman, the capital city of Jordan, offers a wide range of activities to suit various interests. Here are the top activities to do in Amman:
- Visit the Roman Theater: Explore the well-preserved Roman Theater, which dates back to the 2nd century AD. It’s an iconic historical site in the heart of Amman.
- Amman Citadel: Discover the Amman Citadel, an ancient hilltop site with historical remnants from various civilizations. Don’t miss the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace.
- Stroll Down Rainbow Street: Rainbow Street is a trendy area known for its nightlife, art galleries, cafes, and boutiques. It’s a great place to explore the local culture.
- Souk Shopping: Explore the traditional markets and souks in downtown Amman, such as the Al-Balad Souq, to shop for spices, textiles, handicrafts, and more.
- King Abdullah Mosque: Visit the King Abdullah Mosque, one of the largest mosques in Amman, known for its impressive blue dome and stunning architecture.
- Jordan Museum: Discover Jordan’s history and heritage at the Jordan Museum, where you can see a wide range of artifacts and exhibits.
- Amman Art Galleries: Explore Amman’s thriving art scene by visiting art galleries like Darat al Funun and Jacaranda Images.
- Café Hopping: Enjoy traditional Jordanian coffee and tea at local cafes, known as “ahwah.” It’s a great way to experience the local culture.
- Dine on Jordanian Cuisine: Savor delicious Jordanian dishes like Mansaf, falafel, and shawarma at local restaurants and street food vendors.
- Abu Darwish Mosque: Visit the Abu Darwish Mosque, which offers panoramic views of Amman from its hilltop location.
- Hiking in the Surrounding Hills: Amman is surrounded by hills, offering opportunities for hiking and outdoor activities. Check out trails like the Amman-Dead Sea Trail.
- Royal Automobile Museum: Explore the fascinating Royal Automobile Museum, which showcases a collection of classic and historic cars.
- Experience the Hammam: Try a traditional Turkish bath or hammam experience at one of the local bathhouses for relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Shopping at Modern Malls: For modern shopping experiences, visit upscale malls like City Mall, Taj Mall, and Abdali Mall.
- Nightlife in Amman: Enjoy the vibrant nightlife in Amman with a wide range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.
- Day Trip to Jerash: While not in Amman itself, Jerash is only a short drive away and offers impressive Roman ruins and well-preserved architecture.
- Cooking Classes: Take a cooking class to learn how to prepare Jordanian dishes and experience local cuisine firsthand.
- Yoga and Wellness: Many wellness centers and yoga studios offer classes and relaxation sessions for those seeking inner peace and well-being.
- Join a City Tour: Consider taking a guided city tour to get insights into Amman’s history, culture, and landmarks.
- Gardens and Parks: Relax in one of Amman’s parks, such as King Hussein Park or Al Hussein Public Parks, to enjoy green spaces within the city.
Amman offers a dynamic blend of history, culture, modernity, and entertainment, making it a vibrant and diverse city with something for everyone to enjoy.
