Explore More Than Just History in Jordan

21/10/2013 16:10

The Kingdom of Jordan is the birthplace of a number of cultures and civilizations throughout history. Commonly called simply Jordan, the country borders Syria, Israel, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. Despite the fighting in the war-torn countries around it, there is little in Jordan to remind visitors that the area knows anything but peace and serenity. It has the exotic atmosphere visitors are looking for in a Middle Eastern country, but Jordan is the safest destination in the region.

The country also has a variety of activities. You can probably find something you love, no matter your interests. You can eat in fine dining eateries or from food carts. You can also ride a camel, visit a stunning art museum or learn about the history of world religions. Locals in Jordan are welcoming and friendly, happily showing off their country, culture and traditions. It's not unusual for a local family to even invite tourists to their home for a traditional meal! Both culture and religion continue to be important to life in Jordan. Muslim prayer calls sound from mosques five times a day, beginning each morning at dawn.

Jordan, with its natural wonders and ancient historical sites, is an enchanted land full of striking scenery. Moses led the Children of Israel through the Jordanian desert, and Alexander the Great crossed through the country on his way to Egypt. You can walk through the same desert today. You'll see the same views they did, too. Little of the desert landscape has changed in the last 2,000 years. You can still view the massive facades and buildings that were carved out of the red sandstone in Petra. Jordan also played a prominent in the Roman Empire, serving as a lavish and opulent trading center. Many Roman structures still exist, and you can visit them throughout Jordan. Please visit https://gojordan.co.uk/ for more information regarding your jordan holiday.

The capital city of Amman is Jordan's most modern city. With a population of more than two million, citizens of Amman welcome the Western influence but continue to embrace traditional culture as well. The landscape of the city is based on seven large hills, known as the Seven Hills of Amman. Each of these seven hills hosts modern stores and restaurants alongside ancient ruins of long-passed civilizations. The Citadel still stands above Amman, reminding locals and visitors that the city is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited places.

There are many more things to see in Jordan besides Amman, however. Jersah is a well-preserved Greco-Roman city just to the south of the capital. Temples, forums and columns are all waiting to be explored in the city. There are even reenactments of chariot races, complete with centurions and gladiators, held at the Hippodrome in Jerash. If you're looking for even earlier historical sites, you can visit Mt. Nebo, which is mentioned in the Bible in conjunction with the last days of Moses. The mountain offers a view of the Dead Sea and across the Jordan Valley, very similar to what Moses must have seen 3,000 years ago.

The Dead Sea, famous for its healing powers, has inspired a number of spa resorts to open in the area. If you are interested in an ocean where you can swim, Jordan has 26 kilometers of shoreline thanks to the Gulf of Aqaba. Snorkeling in the reefs or relaxing on the beach are the most popular activities.

Then, there's Petra. This lost city is perhaps the most breathtaking site in Jordan. It is a whole ancient city intricately carved into red sandstone rock face. Even today, it would be difficult to sculpt the gigantic carved facades. This makes it hard to believe that the city could have been built as early as 309 BC.

A variety of tours are offered in Jordan. Many of these tours are architectural, cultural, environmental, historical or religious tours. Vacationers spending their holiday in Jordan can sun on gorgeous beaches, float in the Dead Sea, see World Heritage sites and visit modern attractions as well. Jordan, home to some of the earliest civilizations ever discovered, also played a significant role in the early days of Islam, Judaism and Christianity. In addition, the modern country still likes to show off its history to visitors. No matter what your interests, the diversity available in Jordan makes it a great vacation destination. u rl