While visiting the city of Irbid in the North of Jordan, it wouldn’t be reasonable to miss a trip to the archeological site of Pella. The site is set in a fold of hills that overlook the Jordan Valley, one short drive from the town of Tabaqat Fahl, and an hour and a half drive from Amman. The former ancient city of Pella hosts a collection of ruins that date back over 6000 years and is regarded as one of the most important historical landmarks in the country where visitors can experience fascinating glimpses of many of Jordan’s key historical periods. Pella has one of the longest pre-classical histories of any site in Jordan as it offers something to discover for everyone’s interests, and is best known for its classical theater, bath house, nymphaeum and Late Antique remains (at least three churches, a mosque, domestic houses). Pella quickly became one of the cities of the Decapolis, the collection of Roman trade towns connected by paved roads which included Philadelphia (Amman), Gadara (Umm Qais), and Gerasa (Jerash). This confederation of towns lasted until the Abbasids moved the center of the Muslim world to Baghdad.
The ancient city of Jerash
A close second to Petra on the list of favorite destinations in Jordan, the ancient city of Jerash boasts an unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more than 6,500 years and is only about 45km north of Amman and because of its water the site has been settled at least since Neolithic times. The city’s golden age came under Roman rule and the site is now generally acknowledged to be one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world and one of the Decapolis cities once named Gerasa. Hidden for centuries in sand before being excavated and restored over the past 70 years, Jerash reveals a fine example of the grand, formal provincial Roman urbanism that is found throughout the Middle East, comprising paved and colonnaded streets, soaring hilltop temples, grand theatres, spacious public squares and plazas, baths, fountains and city walls pierced by towers and gates. Beneath its external Graeco-Roman veneer, Jerash also preserves a subtle blend of east and west. Its architecture, religion and languages reflect a process by which two powerful cultures meshed and coexisted – The Graeco-Roman world of the Mediterranean basin and the ancient traditions of the Arab Orient.
The Spectacular natural wonder the Dead Sea
A spectacular natural wonder the Dead Sea that is located 427 meters below sea level is perfect for wellness and religious tourism, fun in the sun with the family. With its mix of beach living and religious history you can soak up the sun while Biblical scholars can get their daily dose of religious history. The leading attraction at the Dead Sea is the warm, soothing, super salty water itself – some ten times saltier than sea water, and rich in chloride salts of magnesium, sodium, potassium, bromine and several others. The unusually warm, incredibly buoyant and mineral-rich waters have attracted visitors since ancient times, including King Herod the Great and the beautiful Egyptian Queen, Cleopatra. All of whom have luxuriated in the Dead Sea’s rich, black, stimulating mud and floated effortlessly on their backs while soaking up the water’s healthy minerals along with the gently diffused rays of the Jordanian sun. The lowest point on earth museum & lot’s cave This small museum near the Dead Sea is a wonder in and of itself with its unique location and interesting collection of artifacts. Located at the lowest point on Earth the museum hosts a collection of materials from Lot’s cave (located just up the hill from the museum) and amazingly preserved Graeco-Roman clothing in addition to hundreds of Greek inscriptions. While visiting the museum, the walk up to Lot’s cave is highly recommended. This cave is believed to be where the Prophet Lot escaped to following the story of Sodom and Gomorrah. The cave is believed to have been transformed into a church and the intricate mosaic floor can still be seen today.
The ancient city of Petra
The ancient city of Petra is one of Jordan’s national treasures and by far its best known tourist attraction. Petra is the legacy of the Nabataeans, an industrious Arab people who settled in southern Jordan more than 2,000 years ago. Admired then for its refined culture, massive architecture and ingenious complex of dams and water channels, Petra is a UNESCO World Heritages Site and one of the new Seven Wonders of the World. Inhabited by the Nabateans, Edomites and Romans, Petra brought together the knowledge and skill of these civilizations to create this world wonder. Caravans laden with incense, silks, spices and other exotic goods would rest at Petra. Beidha – the second trail This trail begins at the Beidha Neolithic Village, near to Siq Al-Barid, which is the largest Nabataean site in Beidha. A few services are available here, including toilets, soft drinks and a parking area. You can reach the Siq Umm al-‘Alda entrance by car or bus and then hike to the Baja Neolithic site, which is 30 minutes walking distance away. You will pass some magnificent rock structures on your way to Baja. After exploring the site you follow the same track back to Siq Umm al-‘Alda and then drive to Shkarat Msaied, which is 15 minutes away from Siq Umm al-‘Alda by road. On your way to Shkarat Msaied, driving along Namala road, you can take in the beautiful surrounding landscape and mountains covered with juniper, oak, and wild pistachio trees. Beyond Namala Road you will experience the ancient Nabataean, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic caravan route, which descends to Wadi Araba and Bir Madhkur and continues on to the Negeb and Gaza, forming part of the main caravan route that connected Petra with Gaza on the Mediterranean. Nowadays, this road is used to connect Petra with Wadi Feynan, the Dead Sea in the north, and Aqaba in the south.
Why Jordan River Water is So Special
For centuries, the Jordan River has been revered as a holy site by Christians and Jews alike. It is significant in many religious communities because it is where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. In Judaism, this is where the Israelites crossed into the Promised Land. Over the years, it has become a symbol of hope and healing. Pilgrims worldwide come to the Jordan River to dip themselves in its waters. Many believe the holy water from Jordan has extraordinary powers and can provide blessings and healing. Christian leaders and communities have often used this water and distributed it to the sick and needy. It is used in numerous ceremonies such as baptisms, confirmations, and ordinations. Many Christians also use the water for personal devotions at home. So what makes Jordan River holy water so unique? What are the benefits of using Jordan River holy water? And, how can you use Jordan River holy water in your life? Those are the questions we will be exploring in this blog article. History of the River Jordan The Jordan River is one of the holiest sites in Christianity and Judaism. The river has been a holy land site for centuries, and its waters are said to have healing properties. Also known as the River Jordan and is located in the Middle East. The river flows through the countries of Israel, Jordan, Syria, and Lebanon. The Jordan River is approximately 156 miles long, and its width varies from about 30 feet to 1,000 feet. It is fed by several tributaries, including the Yarmouk River, Dan River, and Zorita River. The river is mentioned in the Hebrew Bible, and it is said to be the site where Joshua led the people of Israel across the river into the Promised Land. Also mentioned in the New Testament, it is said to be the site where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist. In the Old Testament, a miracle is said to have occurred at the river as Jesus’ cloak fell into the river when the Prophet Elijah was taken into heaven. When Elijah’s successor, Elisha, picked up the cloak, he was able to part the waters of the Jordan River and cross over on dry land. Also, Naaman, a Syrian general, was said to have been cured of leprosy after dipping himself seven times in the Jordan River. The Symbolism of the Jordan River We’ve seen that the Jordan River has a long and rich history. But what does the holy river represent for Christians and Jews? For Christians, the Jordan River symbolizes Jesus Christ’s baptism site. As we mentioned, Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist in the Jordan River. This act is a key moment in Jesus’ life – it was when he officially began his ministry. The Jordan River’s connection to Jesus was therefore considered a very holy land. Many Christians believe that the Jordan River has the power to cleanse people of their sins. That’s why many people choose to have baptism in the Jordan River – a way to start fresh and begin their lives anew. The Jordan River also has great significance in Judaism. It is one of the four holy rivers mentioned in the Torah. It’s also the place where the people of Israel crossed into the Promised Land. For Jews, the Jordan River represents a new beginning – a symbol of hope and possibility. The holy spirit is also said to reside in the river. As a Water Source The Jordan River, connected to the Dead Sea, is an important water source for the countries it flows through. The Jordan River provides water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use. The river supplies about 10% of the country’s water needs in Israel. It has been a valuable resource for centuries. In ancient times, people used the river to irrigate crops, bathe, and wash clothes. Today, the river is still an important water source. It also generates hydroelectric power, and its waters are used in irrigation and industry. In addition, the Jordan River is a popular tourist destination – people come from around the world to float in its waters or visit its holy land. It is also an essential part of the region’s ecosystem. It provides a home for many different plants and animals. A total of 7 native species of fish live in this famous living water. Home to reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds that rely on the Jordan River for food and shelter. Despite its importance, the Jordan River is in danger. It is polluted by sewage, agricultural runoff, and industrial waste. As a result, it is becoming increasingly polluted and is at risk of becoming unusable. Holy Water From the Jordan River While the source areas are generally unaffected, the downstream of human settlement is polluted. In some sections, the pollution is so harmful that it is not fit for human consumption. Despite the pollution, it is still considered holy land. Holy water from the blessed living water is used in baptismal ceremonies and other religious rituals. Holy water from the Jordan River is also used to bless people, homes, and objects. As mentioned, it is believed to have the power to cleanse people of their sins. Holy water from Jordan is such a powerful and significant resource. If you’re interested in using the water, you should keep a few things in mind. Ensure you get holy water from a reputable source. There are many fake blessed water products on the market, so it’s essential to be careful. The holy water should be used sparingly. A little goes a long way – you don’t need to douse yourself in the blessed water to receive its benefits. Holy water can be used for various purposes. You can use the holy water to bless yourself, your home, or your belongings. You can also use the holy water in baptismal ceremonies or other religious rituals. No matter how you choose to use the holy water, you’ll
