Madaba

Madaba, often referred to as the City of Mosaics, is a historically significant town located approximately 30 kilometers south of Amman. It is world-famous for its well-preserved Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, the most notable being the 6th-century Madaba Map. This intricate floor mosaic, found in the Greek Orthodox Church of Saint George, depicts the oldest surviving cartographic representation of the Holy Land and Jerusalem. Madaba's history spans over 3,500 years, with mentions in the Bible as the Moabite town of Medeba. The town was resettled in 1880 by Christian families from Karak, which led to the accidental discovery of many of its archaeological treasures. Today, Madaba is a peaceful and welcoming destination that beautifully preserves its religious heritage and artistic traditions. It also serves as a gateway to Mount Nebo, where Moses is said to have seen the Promised Land, and the Dead Sea. The city's Institute for Mosaic Art and Restoration ensures that its ancient craft continues to thrive in the modern era.

Nearby cities

Ma'in Hot Springs

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

Al-Jiza

Al-Jiza forms the southern gateway to the Greater Amman area.

Mahis

Mahis is situated on the hills above the Jordan Valley.

Fuheis

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

Sahab

Sahab is located southeast of the capital and serves as a major logistics hub.

Ain Basha

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

Al-Muwaqqar

Al-Muwaqqar was a magnificent desert palace in early Islamic times.

Russeifa

Russeifa connects the cities of Amman and Zarqa into a massive metropolitan area.

History & landmarks

Qasr al-Abd

A Hellenistic palace near Iraq al-Amir, built from huge stone blocks.

Qasr al-Mushatta

The ruin of the largest Umayyad desert castle in Jordan.

Rujm al-Malfouf

A round megalithic watchtower in Amman, probably built during the Kingdom of Ammon.

Abu Darwish Mosque

This mosque rises on Jabal al-Ashrafiyeh and stands out with its characteristic pattern of alternating black and white stones.

Monastery of Saint Gerasimus

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

Nature

Wadi Mujib (River)

This spectacular canyon is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Jordan and carries water year-round.

Dead Sea

This endorheic salt lake lies over 400 meters below sea level, making it the lowest dry point on Earth.

Dead Sea Coast

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

Jordan River

This historically and religiously significant river forms the natural border between Jordan and the Palestinian territories.

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.

More places

Madaba Map

A 6th-century floor mosaic in St.

Mount Nebo

An elevated ridge where Moses is said to have viewed the Promised Land, now an important pilgrimage destination.

Wadi al-Wala

A picturesque gorge with a constant stream flowing through it, lined with dense oleander bushes.

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Jabal Ataruz

An isolated and historically significant mountain in the Moabite highlands, offering sweeping views of the region.

Machaerus

The ruins of a Herodian palace on a steep hilltop, famous as the site where John the Baptist was imprisoned and beheaded.

Mujib Biosphere Reserve

The lowest nature reserve on Earth captivates with its spectacular gorges and hidden waterfalls.

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Amman Waves Aqua Park

One of the largest water parks in Jordan, offering families a refreshing escape.

Wadi as-Sir

A green and water-rich valley on the outskirts of Amman, surrounded by wooded hills.