Hamman Jordan. National Gallery of Fine Arts. The mysterious cave of Ahl-al-Kahf
An official in Switzerland and in some places in northern Germany, corresponding to our mayor. Dictionary of foreign words included in the Russian language. Chudinov A.N., 1910. AMMAN Official in Switzerland and in some places in northern Germany, ... ... Dictionary of foreign words of the Russian language
Geographic Encyclopedia
AMMAN, the capital (since 1946) of Jordan. 936 thousand inhabitants. International Airport. Cement, oil refining, textile, tobacco industry. University. Museums: Jordanian archaeological, Islam. In ancient times it was known as Rabbat Ammon, in ... ... Modern Encyclopedia
Capital of Jordan. 1.2 million inhabitants (1990). International Airport. Cement, oil refining, textile, tobacco industry. University. Archaeological and Islamic museums. In ancient times it was known as Rabbat Ammon, in Hellenistic ... ... Big Encyclopedic Dictionary
Capital of Jordan. In the 21st millennium BC. e. the ancient city of Rabbat Ammon, in the III century. BC e. IV VI centuries. n. e. Philadelphia. On the hill of the citadel (place ancient city) several tombs and a fragment of a wall have survived (perhaps from the 9th or 8th centuries before ... Art Encyclopedia
Exist., number of synonyms: 2 city (2765) capital (274) ASIS synonym dictionary. V.N. Trishin. 2013 ... Synonym dictionary
Amman- the name of the head of the district or community in some cantons of Switzerland (us.) ... Encyclopedia of Law
The capital of Jordan, the center of the liwa is Amman. Located in wadi Zerka, in the northwestern part of the country. 330.4 thousand inhabitants (1967). Road junction. Zh. d. Art. Airport of international importance. Cement, oil refining, tobacco, food (including ... ... Great Soviet Encyclopedia
Capital of Jordan. 964 thousand inhabitants (1994). International Airport. Cement, oil refining, textile, tobacco industry. University. Archaeological and Islamic museums. In ancient times it was known as Rabbat Ammon, in the Hellenistic ... ... encyclopedic Dictionary
Amman is the capital of Jordan. The city was founded several thousand years ago. Its ancient name is Rabbat Ammon, the city of Ammon (Rabbat city, Amman (Amon), other Egyptian god of the Sun). In the III century. BC e. renamed Philadelphia in honor of the Egyptian. King Ptolemy II, who had ... ... Toponymic Dictionary
Books
- Oil King. The Secret Life of Mark Rich by Daniel Ammann. Quote `You can consider Mark Rich as a kind of Faust of the raw material era. Like Faust, he is an ambitious man who yearns for success and recognition. He has been able to improve...
- Guide Jordan, Maciel S., Suslenkov V.. Amman, North of Jordan, Eastern Desert, Dead Sea, Madaba, Royal Way, Petra Wadi Rum, Aqaba. Over 20 tombs, 4 mosques, 13 castles, over 20 churches, 27 museums, 180 illustrations, 16…
Amman is the capital of Jordan, a city located at a distance of 35 km from Dead Sea. Amman attracts many tourists thanks to harmonious combination ancient oriental traditions and modern trends. What can you see in the city of Brest region?
About 10,000 years ago, where the city is today, a small settlement of Rabbat-Ammon arose. The history of the capital of Jordan is rich in events. At different periods of its existence, Amman fell into the hands of the Romans, experienced the invasions of the Arabs and Turks. Throughout its history, it has suffered from earthquakes and other natural disasters. For a long time the city was small, until in 1946 it became the capital of Jordan.
Today, Amman is a beautiful oriental city that is also industrial and political center countries. A beautiful name for a beautiful one.
How to Get to Amman
The easiest way to fly to Amman is by plane from Moscow, from where there are direct regular flights. The flight time is 4 hours. You can use other flights, but in this case, you will need to make a transfer in Europe. From Saint Petersburg and others major cities Russia can get to Amman only with a transfer in Moscow.
The main airport of the country Queen Alia International Airport is located at a distance of 32 km from the center of Amman. In 2013 a new terminal was built, which significantly improved the appearance and functionality of the airport. Every 30 minutes there is a bus that takes passengers to the bus station. Visitors can take a taxi, which will take them to the city in half an hour.
In addition, there is also AmmanCivilAirport or MarkaAirport, which residents usually call "Old Airport". It is located 4 km from the city center. They come here mainly domestic flights and some international. As a rule, these are routes from neighboring countries.
Hotel prices and shopping
In Amman is a large number of hotels with different prices. Basically, four- and five-star hotels are located in the capital of Jordan. The hotel rooms are comfortable and technically fully equipped. As a rule, in such hotels, customers can use the swimming pool, fitness center and spa for free. To date, ArabelaHotel, GoldenGateHotel and JerusalemInternationalHotel are the most in demand. The cost of rooms in such establishments is $ 150, or $ 70 if the hotel is located far from the center.
The city also has many cheap hotels. Living conditions in them are quite comfortable, and the price is from $ 10, which is quite a bit. The closer to the center the hotel is located, the more the rooms are equipped with appliances, the higher the cost. An important role is played by the additional services provided by the hotel. The most popular in this category are: Panorama Amman Hotel Suites and Amman Palace Hotel.
Amman has heavenly conditions for those who love shopping. You can go for fashionable clothes in designer boutiques, where you can also buy stylish accessories. There are many in the city shopping centers. In the center of Amman is the Gold Souk, where you can buy handmade jewelry at an attractive price. low prices. By the way, no one canceled the bargain either.
A variety of hookahs are sold in the main market of the city - the cost is from 5 dinars. At the same price, you can buy perfume on tap. However, the best option would be to purchase aroma oils in a package - the price is from 3 dinars per bottle. And men will appreciate Damascus steel knives, decorative knives cost from 10 dinars, and real ones - from 500 dinars.
Amman Restaurants
The national cuisine of Jordan will not leave anyone indifferent. There are many restaurants in Amman where you can taste wonderful dishes, among which hummus, falafel and shawarma stand out. “Adas” is interesting, which looks like pilaf, but is cooked with lentils. The most favorite among tourists is lamb stew with sour cream called "mensaf", which is served with rice.
Those with a sweet tooth will enjoy the famous oriental desserts such as baklava, candied fruit, sesame cookies, ice cream and a special guava dessert called zhavafa.
At any catering point, you can find "arak", the most popular alcoholic drink in Amman. However, during the holy month of Ramadan, liquor sales decrease.
Wonderful coffee with cardamom is especially popular among tourists. Its amazing aroma and unusual spicy taste make it a favorite drink for many people.
Prices in Amman restaurants will certainly please tourists. The amount of $ 10-15 is enough to have lunch in a cafe for two. And to dine in an expensive restaurant in the Jordanian capital, you need $20-25.
Where to go and what to see in Amman
Amman is also attractive for its many sights. The most famous is the Fortress Mountain or Amman Citadel. In this place are the ruins of the temple of Hercules, a Byzantine church built in the VI century, as well as beautiful palace Al-Qasr. Today, this territory houses the Archaeological Museum, which attracts tourists and residents of the city with its interesting exhibits.
Of great interest is the ancient amphitheater, located at the foot of the Fortress Hill. Despite the past centuries, the amphitheater is in excellent condition. You can get acquainted with the national culture at the Museum of Folklore and the Jordan Museum of Folk Traditions, located in the Odeon building next to the amphitheater.
In Amman, you can visit a very peculiar museum, which exhibits 60 cars that once belonged to King Hussein. There is also the Coin Museum, which has a collection of coins minted in different times. It is located in the building of the Central Bank. Art lovers can visit the Aliya Art Gallery, which houses works by Jordanian artists.
Another attraction of Amman is the Ragadan Royal Palace, where members of the royal family live today.
Climate and nature of the city
Despite the fact that the climate in Amman is Mediterranean, deserts and mountains influence it. Summer here is very hot, during the day the air warms up to +32°C, at night up to +20°C. In spring and autumn, the weather is moderately warm, so tourists come most often at this time.
In winter the temperature ranges from +13°C to +20°C. Precipitation occurs in winter time of the year. Fog is frequent in the capital of Jordan. Snow occasionally falls in winter, but usually only for a few hours.
Amman is located among the mountains and the desert in an oasis that has formed in the valley of the Ez-Zarqa River. It is located on twelve hills, although it once occupied only seven.
The most famous natural attraction is the Dead Sea, the salt content of which is 7 times higher than normal for ordinary sea water. Near the Dead Sea are thermal springs, which are also widely known for their beneficial properties.
Amman is an extraordinarily attractive city where harmoniously combine modern technologies And ancient traditions. The capital of Jordan is located in the north-west of the country, 35 kilometers from the Dead Sea.
The history of Amman began over 10,000 years ago, when the territory modern city a settlement appeared Rabbath-Ammon. For a long time, Amman passed to the Romans, then to the Arabs, then to the Turks. For many centuries, the city was in decline and only in the middle of the 20th century reached its peak, when in 1946 Amman was chosen as the capital of the new state of Jordan. Hashemite Kingdom.
Currently, Amman is a major political, cultural and industrial center of Jordan. The main enterprises of the oil refining, cement, textile, food and tobacco industries are concentrated here. The head office of a major Middle East bank is located in the capital of the Kingdom Arab Bank.
Amman is home to the main educational establishments countries where not only Jordanians, but also students from neighboring countries receive higher education.
Currently, Amman attracts with its unique historical sights and religious shrines. Numerous tourists from all over the world come here to get to know the unique traditions of the East.
Climate and weather
The climate in Amman is Mediterranean. True, the influence of the mountains and the desert significantly affects the weather conditions of the capital of Jordan. The summer period in the city is incredibly hot. Often during the day the air warms up to +32 ° C, and at night the temperature rarely drops to + 20 ° C. True, the lack of precipitation makes it easy to endure the summer heat.
Winter in Amman is warm. Average daily temperature ranges from +13°C to +20°C. The annual rainfall is approximately 550 mm. Rain in Amman falls mainly in winter. Sometimes in January, the townspeople can observe the snow, however, only a few hours. characteristic feature weather conditions The Jordanian capital is considered to be frequent heavy fogs.
lucky geographical position Amman has provided the city with warm, comfortable weather all year round. Most tourists prefer to come to the capital of Jordan in spring and autumn. At this time, moderately warm, cool weather is established in the city, to which it is easier to adapt.
Nature
In the northwestern part of Jordan, among the small mountains and the endless desert, in the valley Az-Zarqa river there is a beautiful oasis, where the magnificent Amman is located. Previously, the locals called their capital " Second Rome”, since the city is spread over seven hills. Today, the sprawling Amman occupies at least ten hills.
The vegetation of Amman compared to the rest of the country is quite rich. Thanks to the sea winds that bring life-giving moisture, various trees and shrubs typical of the Mediterranean grow here (maquis, yucca, agave, date palms).
The surroundings of Amman have chosen a variety of reptiles (lizards, scorpions, geckos), there are also jackals, foxes, hyenas. The main representatives of Amman's avifauna are larks, partridges and hazel grouses.
Just 35 kilometers from Amman is the pearl of Jordan and its main natural attraction - the Dead Sea. Worldwide, this body of water is famous for its high salt content, which is more than 7 times higher than normal sea water. Near the Dead Sea there are unique thermal springs, which gained fame more than two thousand years ago.
Attractions
Ancient Amman attracts tourists not only as a point from which it is more convenient to get to the Dead Sea and unique sources of thermal water, but also with numerous historical and cultural attractions. The most significant in the cultural heritage of Jordan are amman citadel, or Fortress Hill, as the locals call it. Here you can see the remains of the fortress walls, the Byzantine church of the VI century, the legendary colonnade of the temple Hercules ah, majestic Al Qasr Palace. Currently organized here Archaeological Museum, which contains thousands of unique exhibits, among them it is worth noting the famous "Qumran scrolls".
At the very foot of the Fortress Mountain is one of the main symbols of Amman - antique amphitheater which has been perfectly preserved to this day. Next to the amphitheater is the majestic antique building Odeon where they are currently located Jordan Museum of Folk Traditions And Folklore Museum. Their unique collections introduce tourists to the culture of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.
Numerous pilgrims are attracted by the alleged location of the development of the biblical scene about the incredible dream of Christians - the Byzantine necropolis " The Cave of the Sleepers».
Attracts the attention of foreign tourists majestic and luxurious Royal Palace Ragadan, which today houses the residence of the royal family.
The most interesting museums of Jordan are concentrated in Amman. Of greatest interest is Royal Car Museum, which features more than 60 rare cars of King Hussein himself. The building of the Central Bank houses an interesting Museum of coins. Here, tourists can see a rare collection of coins from different times. Some of them have come down to us since the last millennium. You can get acquainted with the works of Jordanian artists and sculptors in Aliya Art Gallery.
Quite a few notable places located in the vicinity of Amman. Many tourists come to the ancient town of Salt, which is well preserved Ottoman city. IN Salte is stunning Archaeological Museum. Here is a chic collection of famous Palestinian embroideries, ceramics, Bedouin carpets, olive wood crafts, etc.
Near Amman is a magnificent iraq al amir palace. A delightful Hellenistic residence from the 2nd century BC has been restored here. Near the Jordanian capital (only 33 kilometers away) is the famous Madaba the city of mosaics.
Nutrition
Numerous gastronomic establishments in the capital of Jordan, Amman, offer delicious national cuisine. It's interesting that culinary traditions Jordanian capitals are a bit like Lebanese and Palestinian cuisines. In the menu of local restaurants, the main dishes are " falafel», « hummus”, various salads and, of course, shawarma. Its Jordanian cooks cook with any meat except pork - its Muslims are forbidden to use a religious custom.
most popular meat dish Amman is considered mansaf"- lamb stewed in sour cream. Such a treat is served exclusively with rice. Many tourists prefer adasu". Outwardly, this dish is somewhat reminiscent of traditional oriental pilaf, however, Jordanians use lentils instead of rice.
As such, there is no bread in Amman. Citizens use the famous Arab lavash, as well as " ragif" And " kmage", which can be used as improvised spoons.
The huge variety of oriental sweets and desserts that Amman restaurants offer is amazing. No foreigner will deny himself the pleasure of enjoying the amazing taste of amazing sesame cookies, pistachio baklava, dessert with guava " Javafa”, a variety of candied fruits and excellent ice cream.
The traditional alcoholic drink of Jordan is considered " arak". It can be found in absolutely all catering establishments in Amman. It is worth noting that during Ramadan a restriction is introduced on the sale of alcoholic beverages in the capital of Jordan. Excellent coffee with cardamom is very popular among foreign guests of Amman. Its unique and unusual taste makes you fall in love with this attractive drink.
The restaurants of the Jordanian capital will pleasantly surprise travelers with their prices. Delicious lunch at inexpensive cafes you can only 10-15 $ for two. A dinner in a luxurious restaurant will cost $20-25.
Accommodation
Hospitable eastern Amman has a wide choice of places to stay for foreign tourists. Most hotels in the capital of Jordan have four and five stars. Comfortable and spacious rooms with a full range of necessary furniture and appliances are at the service of clients. All luxury hotels have gourmet restaurants, excellent coffee houses and fine shops, which will definitely appeal to European fashionistas. In addition, often clients of such hotels can use the services of fitness centers, swimming pools, and spas for free. The most popular establishments are Jerusalem International Hotel, Golden Gate Hotel And Arabela Hotel. Accommodation in such hotels will cost tourists an average of $ 150. You can find a room for $70, however, this hotel will be located far from the city center.
Budget travelers will find many small hotels in Amman. The rooms in them are also quite comfortable, and the cost of living is very attractive - from $10 to $150. The final price depends on the location of the hotel, on the equipment of the rooms with modern technology and the provision of additional services. Of these hotels, tourists often choose Amman Palace Hotel And Panorama Amman Hotel Suites.
Entertainment and recreation
Beautiful eastern Amman offers its guests a program rich in entertainment.
In addition to excursions and sightseeing of the main sights of the capital of Jordan, young people choose a fun and noisy vacation in numerous nightclubs and discos, which are mainly located at large hotels. Each institution offers its customers a rich entertainment program. Most bars and discos are open until late in the evening, and some until the morning.
Older people prefer cultural recreation in the theaters of Amman, where you can see a variety of interesting performances from classical to modern dramas.
Families with children who come to Amman choose to relax in a modern water park equipped with several pools, steep slides and spirals, which will certainly appeal to kids. After several hours of splashing in the water, you can have a bite to eat in cafes and restaurants located on the second floor of the water park.
The youngest guests of Amman will certainly enjoy the local zoo, which contains various animals and birds that live not only in Jordan, but throughout the Middle East.
Close to Amman is national park Hussein. Several sports grounds and complexes with attractions for children were opened on its territory.
Golf lovers spend the whole day on the magnificent fields of the local club. Its staff of professional trainers will help you learn the basics of this favorite game of millionaires.
The Jordanian capital is famous for its unique national festivals. The most popular has been global village". This one, dedicated to folklore, folk traditions and the cultural heritage of Jordan, the festival is held annually and lasts almost a whole month. Gained great popularity and music Festival Souk Decree held every summer in either Amman or Jerash. It brings together numerous musicians, dancers and singers from all over Jordan and neighboring countries.
Purchases
Amman is considered a real paradise for shoppers. Large shopping centers, small shops and street souvenir shops are at the service of buyers.
The main souvenirs that you should definitely buy in Amman are Madaba wicker rugs, olive wood crafts, original bottles with multi-colored sand, copper and ceramic dishes, black silver jewelry, and jewelry.
There are shops in Amman that specialize in selling unique Jordanian handicrafts. Most tourists prefer stunning mother-of-pearl products, Hebron glass, and original cross-stitch. But old guns and sabers from the early 20th century, leather goods and Bedouin jewelry are especially popular. As a rule, for the export of such products abroad, a receipt from the store confirming payment for the purchase is required.
In Jordan, and in particular in its capital, you can get unique copper products. Turks, engraved trays and coffee sets made of this material are very popular.
Gained worldwide fame golden quarter Amman. Numerous jewelry stores are located here, where you can buy items made of silver and gold of the highest standard.
Not a single woman will bypass a shop that sells healing cosmetics based on Dead Sea products. It is recommended to purchase such products in pharmacies or large shopping centers where there is no risk of acquiring a fake.
The most popular shopping malls among tourists are Mecca Mall, city mall And Cozmo, which attract foreigners with numerous branded stores, cute souvenir shops and luxurious restaurants.
Almost all shops in Amman use the system Premier Tax Free . Thanks to this innovation, foreign tourists are able to receive tax refunds on every purchase.
Transport
Amman is a major transport center in Jordan. Public transport is represented by numerous bus routes. True, almost all of them pass at a considerable distance from objects of interest to tourists. In addition, there are no English-language markings on the buses, which makes traveling around the city much more difficult.
Minibuses or minibuses are considered the most popular means of transportation in Amman; locals call their services. The main difference from city buses is the lack of a permanent schedule. Often, cars are sent only after the cabin is completely filled. Ticket prices in public transport are about $ 1.5.
Many tourists prefer to travel around the city by private taxi. The trip on this transport will be much more comfortable, and faster. But the cost of such a trip is $ 1 per kilometer, an additional $ 0.4 per landing is paid. It is worth noting that all Amman taxis are equipped with meters. True, at night, drivers often turn them off.
A small Railway, final destination which is the Syrian Damascus. Before resumption civil war in Syria, a regular passenger rail link was established between the two capitals. Currently, traffic is stopped not only in Damascus, but also to the Jordanian border town El Mafraka.
Near the Jordanian capital is a large international Airport. Airlines based here operate both domestic flights and international flights to Europe, Africa and Asia. The most popular destination is Amman-Aqaba. The cost of such a flight is only $ 5.
Connection
Communication in Amman is quite modern. The city exists as a stationary telephone communications, and cellular, which has gained great popularity. It is provided by two operators - "FastLink" And MobilCom. Many tourists call cellular communication the most profitable in Jordan. For calls both within the country and for international calls, it is better to purchase SIM cards from local companies. Within the network, one minute of conversation will cost $0.14. And a call to Russian cities will cost about $1 per minute.
You can also call abroad using phones installed in hotels. As a rule, a call from such a device will cost $2 per minute. Interestingly, most hotels charge for a minimum of three minutes of conversation.
On central streets Amman, you can find cozy Internet cafes offering the full range of network services. It should be noted that most large hotels and hotels also offer free internet services.
Safety
The capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, Amman is considered one of the safest capitals in the Middle East. The crime rate here is quite low. Mostly, only minor offenses are noted in Amman - pickpocketing and fraud. Foreign citizens need to be very careful in crowded places. Do not flaunt large sums of money and expensive things.
The sanitary situation in Amman is good. There are no dangerous diseases in the city. True, many travel companies do not insist, but recommend preventive vaccinations against typhoid fever, tuberculosis, tetanus, poliomyelitis and hepatitis A.
Cases of appeals increase in Amman during the summer foreign citizens in health care facilities with intestinal disorders. It is advisable to completely abandon the use of unboiled tap water. It is better to give preference to bottled drinks. Vegetables and fruits purchased from shops and markets in Amman should be thoroughly washed before consumption. And meat and fish are also additionally thermally processed.
Business climate
Amman - modern capital with a developed economy. The constant growth of foreign tourists' interest in the historical and natural attractions of the Jordanian capital, its cultural heritage makes the tourism industry the main one in the city's economy. Many businessmen, especially from the rich countries of the Persian Gulf, prefer to invest large sums of money in the development of Amman's tourism infrastructure. The main directions of foreign investment are the construction of new hotels, modern entertainment complexes, shopping centers, which have the shortest payback period.
Real estate
The Amman real estate market is in great demand not only among investors, but also among people who want to acquire their own housing in this beautiful corner of the Earth.
Amman real estate has a reputation for being one of the most stable in the Middle East, even the Saudi Arabian market suffered more from the 2008 crisis than the Jordanian one. Every year the prices for apartments and houses in Amman increase by several percent. Currently, in the center of the capital of Jordan, you can buy an apartment at an average cost of $ 1,500 per square meter. On the outskirts of the city, housing will be much cheaper. Small apartments are listed for sale at a price of $80,000.
It should be noted that local authorities all restrictions on the acquisition of real estate by foreign citizens have been lifted. To draw up the required documents for a sale and purchase transaction, non-residents only need to provide their foreign passport.
Very popular among foreign citizens coming to Amman for long term enjoys the rental housing market. A comfortable apartment in the city center will cost $400 per month. In the sleeping areas of the capital of Jordan, you can also find cheaper rental housing - for only $ 150 per month.
Traveling through the magnificent and oriental luxurious Amman will give a lot of unforgettable experiences, you just have to follow some completely simple rules of being in a Muslim society.
The strict laws of Islam in Amman must be observed not only by the townspeople, but also by those who come to this a beautiful city foreign tourists. Any expression of one's feelings in public, public kisses and hugs evoke extremely negative emotions in local residents. Women are forbidden to look and touch "alien" men. Many entertainment establishments have separate women's rooms.
In a conversation with local residents, in no case start a conversation about a wife (husband) and children. These topics are considered taboo in Muslim society.
Visiting public places in Amman requires tourists to wear appropriate clothing, which should at least cover their knees and elbows. Women also need to cover their heads.
If you plan to shoot video and photography, you must obtain the appropriate permission in advance. It is strictly forbidden to take pictures of government and military installations in Amman.
When buying expensive souvenirs, ask the seller for a receipt confirming the purchase of the product. Customs authorities usually ask you to present a similar document for expensive items (antique weapons, antiques, jewelry, fur). It should be noted that in Jordan it is forbidden to export items that are more than 100 years old.
In Amman, you can find many sights of all eras - from the Stone Age to ancient Greek, Roman, Byzantine and Islamic. There are no particularly outstanding among them, but each is quite interesting.
In the western hills (in Arabic "hill, mountain" - "jebel") the most prestigious and fashionable areas of the city are located - Jebel Amman, Shmeisani, Jebel Hussein and Jebel Weibdeh. Ministries, embassies, international companies and comfortable hotels, as well as the houses of urban residents belonging to the upper and middle classes.
The city center is Old city, also known as Lower (Downtown); now it is one of the poorest areas. East End cities - industrial zone. It is located very well: the prevailing wind direction is such that emissions are carried away into the desert.
When Emir Abdullah moved here in 1921 to administer the British mandate, the town had 3,000 inhabitants and was little more than a large village. The population of the whole country was 350 thousand people - the same number of people live, for example, on the island of Malta. Today, more than half of the country's population of 6 million lives in Amman.
Half a day is enough to see the main sights of Amman. You can also pay attention to them in between excursions, since it is from Amman that it is best to travel to Jerash, the Dead Sea, Madaba and desert palaces.
Roman Amman
In Amman, there are practically no traces of the city of Rabat-Ammon mentioned in the Bible, or ancient Greek Philadelphia. This city was named after Ptolemy II Philadelphus (which means "sister's friend" in Greek), so named because he married his sister Arsinoe. The earliest surviving monuments in Amman date back to the Roman Empire. When the emperor Trajan conquered the Nabataean kingdom, along with the league of cities of the Decapolis, he set out to turn it into the province of Arabia. Amman, located on the Roman caravan route from Bosra to Aqaba, became an important trading center, where the horse trade was concentrated. It flourished, so magnificent buildings were built here: a theater and concert hall, temples and forum.
Amphitheater, concert hall (odeum) and forum
In images dating back to the 1880s, the theater is separate standing building on a bare hill; now the steep slopes of this hill are densely built up with houses standing literally on the roofs of each other. Carved into the rock, the theater has now been carefully restored and partially restored. It was built in the II century. and could accommodate about 6,000 spectators. Performances are still held in this building. The area in front of the theater, the former forum, now transformed into archaeological park with the remains of a Corinthian colonnade, a promenade and a small ode for musical performances.
In the vaulted paradoi (ground floor) The theater houses two small nice museums. Folklore Museum - smaller and less interesting; here are collected Bedouin costumes and images of their scenes Everyday life. The Museum of Popular Traditions also exhibits Bedouin outfits, but the most interesting here is Bedouin jewelry made from gold, silver and even Red Sea coral. The girl received jewelry as a wedding gift from the groom - they were part of the ransom that the groom paid to the bride's father, and remained her property - a guarantee of financial compensation in the event of a divorce. This tradition is still preserved in Jordan today, as in many other Arab countries.
Also interesting is the collection of talisman stones worn by the Bedouins, believing that they have magical powers, in particular, they heal various diseases.
Amphitheater and museums. Open: Sat-Thu 8.00-16.00 (winter), 8.00-18.00 (in summer), Fri 10.00-16.00. Paid entrance.
Nymphaeum
This monumental skeleton of a two-story fountain dating back to the 2nd century BC was lost in the Lower City. In the 1980s, it was densely surrounded by shops, houses and cafes, and now it is surrounded by a fence and is awaiting restoration. Saqf Sayl.
Temple of Hercules
The only surviving temple in Amman is located in the fortress (citadels). Its columns were re-erected in 1993. Coins with the image of Hercules led experts to the conclusion that the temple was dedicated to this hero. A monumental staircase used to lead up the hillside to the theatre, it is planned to be restored, but the project has existed for many years.
Open: 8.00-16.00. Entrance to the citadel is paid, the entrance ticket entitles you to visit the Archaeological Museum and the Umayyad Palace complex.
In the future, the museum will occupy a large area.
Outskirts of Amman
You can do something interesting short tour in the mysterious palace of the II century. BC e., located in the village of Iraq al-Amir, in Wadi al-Sir, 22 km from Amman. This unique monument, the best-preserved Hellenistic structure in the country near an amazing cave complex.
The nature of Wadi al-Sira is very attractive: a river runs between the hills, surrounded by poplars, olives and green meadows. Especially good here in the spring - you can have a picnic on the grass.
The trip will take about two hours. If you are traveling by car, you can time it to the end of the day when you are going from Amman to Madaba or the Dead Sea, or to the beginning of the day, on the way to Jerash.
Leave the center of Amman on the 8th ring (so-called circle) and, following the signs, head west towards Wadi al-Sir, on a road that passes through sprawling Amman and several villages. The palace is located 10 km below the village of Wadi al-Sir; you will realize that you are approaching it, seeing a cliff to the right with steps carved into it. Open: from dawn to dusk (the guard lives right there, he has the key to the palace). The entrance is free.
Iraq al Amir
The palace was discovered in 1818, but until 1976, when the French-Jordanian joint archaeological project began, it baffled all archaeologists. Earthquakes shook the building for centuries, and archaeological work using cranes was completed only in 1987.
The huge palace is built of gigantic limestone slabs, some of them up to 3 m long and only 50 cm wide. It is believed that it was surrounded artificial pond. A whimsical mixture of the Egyptian concept of balance and graceful Greek and Oriental styles, this monument is one of a kind. On the blocks with which the former first floor is finished, figures of lions are carved, designed to protect persons of royal blood; the rooms below, most likely, served as pantries for provisions. The open-mouthed lion was part of the fountain, and water from the pools located inside the palace flowed into reservoirs near its paws.
Most historians now believe that the construction of the palace was carried out under the direction of Tobias, the administrator of Ammon, who served under the Persian king Artaxerxes I in the 5th century BC. BC e. This Tobias is mentioned in the Book of Nehemiah as "Ammon's servant" in connection with the palace, Arabic name whom - Qasr Al-Abd ("Servant's Palace"). The last of the Tobiades founded his own small dynasty here around 180 BC. e., quarreling with the Jerusalem branch of the family, but fell into political isolation and soon committed suicide.
700 m in front of the palace there is a cliff side, pitted with caves, and a 300-meter gallery carved into the rock; today it can be reached by stairs, which may have been the tombs of the Tobiad family in the past. "Iraq al-Amir" means "Caves of the Prince".
Amman is very different from its "metropolitan" Middle Eastern neighbors - Cairo or Damascus. It's not great Cultural Center, numbering thousands of years, where each stone breathes history. This is a modern Arab city that can be a great "sip" fresh air after the musty antiquity of Syria or Egypt, or it may turn out to be a complete disappointment for tourists who do not want to see the expansion of European globalization to the ancient, powerful and mysterious East.
It is impossible to understand the soul of Amman without visiting its two parts. The first is Eastern Amman, conservative, Muslim, where the poor people roam the narrow streets, and Palestinian refugee camps are set up on the outskirts. The complete opposite is Western Amman with its comfortable quarters, trendy cafes and bars, impressive collections art galleries including contemporary art. In short, if you want to visit the capital of Jordan to walk through the medieval bazaars or enjoy the grandiose heritage of Islam, then you should not. Come to Amman to immerse yourself in the everyday life of a lively, modern, contrasting city that invariably welcomes its guests with warmth and oriental cordiality.
How to get to Amman
From Moscow Domodedovo to Amman three times a week (Tuesday, Friday, Sunday) operate direct flights "Es Seven" and "Royal Jordanian"; travel time - 4.5 hours, round trip ticket costs 480 USD. A more profitable option is to get with a change in Istanbul, Athens, Tel Aviv, Doha, Abu Dhabi or Dubai, but the minimum travel time is 6 hours. For such flights, you can choose "Turkish Airlines", " Aegean Airlines, Emirates, Flydubai, Etihad Airways, Qatar Airways and other carriers. Prices on the page are for December 2017.
From airport to city
Amman International Airport "Queen Alia" is located 32 km from the city. The most affordable way to get to the center is by shuttle buses that run every half an hour between North bus station and the main air gates of the country, on the road about 45 minutes.
It's faster and more comfortable to take a taxi. The trip will take 20-25 minutes and cost 20 JOD. Some taxi drivers try to deceive customers by indicating the cost either in JOD or in USD. Therefore, you need to negotiate immediately, or even better - write down the price on the sheet with the currency designation.
By bus
Often travelers come to Amman from other places in Jordan and Israel by bus. This mode of transport connects the capital with cities such as Petra, Aqaba, Irbid, as well as with the King Hussein Bridge, through which you can arrive in Jordan from Israel and Palestine. It takes about an hour to drive from the border to Amman.
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Transport
Amman public transport is complex and extensive network buses of three types: large, medium, reminiscent of our minibuses, and minivans. In addition, white Servees cars drive around the city - ordinary cars, which travel along predetermined routes and do not deviate from them: a distinctive and less expensive alternative to taxis.
It is usually difficult for travelers to use buses: transport stops at the request of passengers, signs are not translated into English, and flight numbers are in most cases missing. But the locals are happy to help tourists and suggest what to go on. You need to pay at the entrance, the money is placed in a special box next to the driver's seat, they don't give change.
Most convenient way travel - taxi. Cars of official carriers are painted gray and yellow, payment by meter. A trip around the city costs 20 JOD, but you must make sure that the meter is turned on and not give in to the driver's persuasion of a fixed price.
Tourists are not recommended to rent a car in Amman, as the traffic is too chaotic and poorly organized. However, rental services are presented in all their diversity, so if necessary, finding a car is not difficult.
Amman Hotels
In Amman, guests are waiting for several hundred hotels of different price categories: from very unpretentious hostels to truly luxurious oriental "palaces". Ethnic places are especially original, where the rooms themselves, halls, spa centers and beauty salons are decorated with gilding, brocade and carpets.
A little less often, apartments are rented out, but among them you can find worthy options. A bed in a hostel is offered for 5 JOD, a double room in a 3 * hotel costs 35 JOD, and for a five-star option you will have to pay 100-120 JOD per day.
The highest valued accommodation is along Al Hashemi and Al Rida streets. Amman is considered a safe city, but it is more comfortable and quieter to stay in the center.
What to bring
Hand-embroidered interior fabrics are considered traditional souvenirs from Amman. Mostly there are images of folk ornaments and natural motifs. Girls are happy to buy original Arabic-style jewelry made of metal and stones. Very popular cosmetics based on salt from the Dead Sea, which is located just 35 km from the city, as well as oils: olive, coconut and argan.
Almost every interior will fit metal vases and sand paintings. And relatives and friends will be happy with local sweets made from dried fruits, candied fruits and nuts. Gourmets can bring spices or coffee as a gift.
In Amman, it is customary to bargain, but only if it is not about gold jewelry, they are always set at a fixed price.
The "Golden Bazaar" (souk), located in the city center, is famous for its magnificent handicrafts made of gold and silver. The prices here are moderate, but you can always bargain. In addition, the city has many excellent shops with goods of local artisans: carpets and pillows, ceramics, inlay and embroidery. Do not be surprised if the owner of the shop offers a cup of coffee: such a friendly gesture is quite traditional for Jordanians.
There are also several modern shopping centers in Amman: Abdun Mall, Amman Mall, Mecca Mall and Zara.
Views of Amman
Cuisine and restaurants in Amman
Amman boasts a wide variety of restaurants, ranging from the national cuisine of the Middle East to European, fast food and chain cafes. Prices vary greatly, the most affordable food is Arabic and can be found everywhere. Dinner in a good restaurant will cost 35 JOD per person.
Meat dishes contain lamb and chicken, rarely beef and never pork. Shawarma (shawarma) is made from lamb meat and wrapped in a flatbread. The best one can be found in the alley, in the Shawermat Reem tent, on 2nd Circle. It's a very popular place and it's very cheap. Rice and bread cakes are a typical side dish. A specialty Jordanian dish is "mansaf" made from lamb and rice and is eaten with the hands. They also love pea-based dishes: falafel, hummus, and full.
One of the most famous places Amman - Hashem restaurant located in the city center. You can eat here for no more than 1.50 JOD, which is very cheap compared to other restaurants. At the same time, the institution is one of the favorite places of the royal family. Nearby is Habeebah, where you can taste oriental sweets baklava, the national traditional dessert knafeh nabelseyyeh.
Guides in Amman
Entertainment and attractions in Amman
From the ancient Amman, only the citadel remained, towering over the city on the hill of Jabal al-Qalaa. Nearby are the ruins of the Umayyad palace park. Nearby - the ruins of a small Byzantine basilica, and about 100 m to the south - the remains of the Temple of Hercules, also known as the Great Temple of Amman.
12 km south of the city, on top of a hill, is Kan Zaman, a restored complex of stables, warehouses and living quarters, which has become one of Amman's most popular tourist destinations. In Can Zaman you can find traditional dishes, the best handicrafts, smoke hookah and drink real Jordanian coffee. The valley of Wadi al-Sir, located 12 km west of the city, is one of the most beautiful places Jordan. The road passes several small villages and reaches the caves of Iraq al-Emir (“caves of the prince”), and ends at the fortress of Qasr al-Abd (“Castle of the slave”).
