Jordan River

The Jordan River is a 251-kilometer-long river that flows through the Levant, originating from the slopes of Mount Hermon and traveling south through the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea. It holds immense historical, cultural, and religious significance, particularly as the site of the baptism of Jesus by John the Baptist at Al-Maghtas, which is now a UNESCO World Heritage site. Throughout history, the river has served as a natural boundary between various kingdoms and empires, including the Israelites, Moabites, and Romans. Geographically, it occupies the northern part of the Jordan Rift Valley, a tectonic depression that influences the regional climate and hydrology. Today, the river's flow is severely diminished due to extensive water diversion for agriculture and domestic use by riparian states, leading to significant environmental stress on the Dead Sea. Despite its reduced volume, it remains a vital source of irrigation for the fertile Jordan Valley, often called the breadbasket of the region. International cooperation remains crucial for the rehabilitation of the river's ecosystem and the preservation of its sacred heritage sites.

Nearby cities

Ain Basha

Ain Basha is located on the edge of the capital on fertile land.

As-Salt

As-Salt was once the most important settlement in Jordan.

Fuheis

Fuheis is a picturesque town northwest of Amman, inhabited almost exclusively by Jordanian Christians.

Mahis

Mahis is situated on the hills above the Jordan Valley.

Ma'in Hot Springs

Natural thermal waterfalls cascade into a desert oasis, offering relaxation in mineral-rich waters.

History & landmarks

Monastery of Saint Gerasimus

The Monastery of Deir Hajla near Jericho is a desert oasis dedicated to Saint Gerasimus.

St. George's Monastery

This monastery in Wadi Qelt is famous for its location in a deep canyon.

Mar Saba Monastery

This Greek Orthodox monastery hangs spectacularly on the cliffs of the Kidron Valley.

Dead Sea Basin

The Dead Sea Basin is the lowest point on the Earth's surface on dry land.

Nature

Dead Sea Coast

The lowest coastline on Earth, lined with sparkling salt crystals and mineral-rich mud beaches.

Dead Sea West Shore

The west shore of the Dead Sea features salt crystal formations and extreme environments.

Ein Feshkha Springs

These freshwater springs on the shores of the Dead Sea create a lush desert oasis.

Ein es-Sultan Spring

The Ein es-Sultan Spring is the primary water source for Jericho, supporting life for 10,000 years.

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Wadi el-Makkuk Nature Reserve

Wadi el-Makkuk is an isolated desert gorge with unique flora.

Al-Auja Spring

The Al-Auja Spring in the Jordan Valley is a vital water source for both wildlife and humans.

Wadi el-Mureijat Nature Area

Wadi el-Mureijat is characterized by extreme elevation changes and rare rock-dwelling flora.

Dead Sea

The Dead Sea is an endorheic salt lake located at the lowest land elevation on Earth, famous for its extremely high salinity.

More places

Al-Maghtas

The historical baptismal site on the Jordan River, widely recognized as the authentic location where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.

Jordan Valley Date Palm Plantations

Jordan is globally renowned for its premium Medjool dates.

Wadi Shuaib

An important valley connecting the city of Salt to the Jordan Valley, intensively used for agriculture.

Jordan Rift Valley

This significant geological depression is part of the Great Rift Valley and is very fertile.

Jordan Valley Citrus Farms

The Jordan Valley is the country's agricultural heartland where citrus fruits thrive exceptionally well.

Belqa Plateau

A fertile plateau in central Jordan, known for its agriculture and temperate climate.

Royal Botanic Garden

The Royal Botanic Garden of Jordan protects native flora while offering stunning views of the King Talal Dam.

Baptism Site

This site on the Jordan River is traditionally considered the place where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.