Temples are some of the most ancient and awe-inspiring structures in the world. Though they often fall into ruins, they remain as a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of their builders. Jordan is home to many ancient temples, including some of the most well-known in the world.
Here is the list of ten most stunning temples and ancient ruins in Jordan to visit for first time visitors in 2024.
1 Petra
The ancient city of Petra is one of the most famous archaeological sites in the world. The city was built by the Nabataean Arabs and served as an important trading center in the region.
The most iconic structure in Petra is the Treasury, a grand temple carved into the sandstone cliffs.
The Treasury is just one of many ancient temples and ruins that can be found in Petra, making it a must-see places for anyone interested in ancient history of Jordan.
- Address: 8FC2+VM5, Wadi Musa, Jordan.
- Working Hours: Mon-Sat 6am-5pm, Sun – 9am-5pm.
- Phone number: +96265543600
- On the map: link.
The Treasury at Petra is one of the most iconic ancient temples and ruins in Jordan. This temple was carved into a sandstone cliff face and served as a tomb for a Nabataean king.
The temple is adorned with intricate carvings and reliefs, and is an example of the incredible skill of the Nabataean people.
If you would like to visit Petra, you can join day tour from Amman. Click here to get more info about the tour and make your reservation.
2 Ruined city of Jerash
The ancient city of Jerash is home to some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world. The city was once an important center of trade and culture, and its ruins reflect this importance.
The Temple of Artemis is one of the most impressive structures in Jerash. This temple was built in honor of the Greek goddess Artemis and is decorated with beautiful statues and carvings.
The Roman ruins of Jerash are some of the most well-preserved in the world. The city was once an important center of trade and culture, and its ruins reflect this importance.
The Temple of Artemis is one of the most impressive structures in Jerash.
- Address: 7VHQ+GP8, Jerash, Jordan
- Working hours: 8.30am – 6.30pm
- Phone number: +96226354653
- On the map: link.
If you would like to visit city of Jerash, Umm Qais and Ajloun Castle, you can join private day tour to admire ancient ruins and learn more about the history of these places. Click here to get more info about the tour and make your reservation.
3 Quseir ‘Amra
Qasr Amra is a stunning ancient desert palace in Jordan that was built in the 8th century.
The palace is famous for its beautiful frescoes and carvings, which depict scenes from everyday life in ancient times. Qasr Amra is a must-see for anyone interested in ancient history or art.
- Address: شارع الحرية 230، عمّان، Jordan
- Working hours: 8am – 4pm
- On the map: link.
4 Qasr al-Azraq
Qasr al-Azraq is a fortified castle in Jordan that was built in the 13th century. The castle was once an important strategic stronghold, but today it is a ruined site that is open to the public.
Qasr al-Azraq is a fascinating place to visit for anyone interested in ancient history or military architecture.
- Address: VRJG+3X6, Azraq, Jordan
- Working hours: 10am – 4pm
- Phone number: +962777080141
- On the map: link.
5 Umm Qais
Umm Qais is an archaeological site in Jordan that was once the capital of the ancient kingdom of Gadara. The site is home to several well-preserved Roman ruins, including a theatre and a temple.
Umm Qais is a great place to learn about the history of the region and see some of the best-preserved Roman ruins in Jordan.
- Address: MM4H+9Q9, Umm Qais, Jordan
- Working hours: 8am – 5pm
- Official website: https://www.ummqaisheritage.com/
- On the map: link.
6 The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ (Al-Maghtas)
The Baptism Site “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” is a place of great religious significance. This is where Jesus is said to have been baptized by John the Baptist.
The site is located on the banks of the River Jordan and is a popular place for pilgrims and tourists alike. As this place is considered as sacred, please don’t forget to dress and behave respectfully.
- Address: RHP2+V4M, Juwafat al-Kafrayn, Jordan
- Working hours: 8.30am – 5pm
- Official website: http://www.baptismsite.com/
- Phone number: +96253590360
- On the map: link.
If you would like to visit this sacred place, you can join day tour to Madaba, admire Greek Orthodox Church and The Baptism Site of Jesus Christ. Click here to get more info about this tour and make your reservation.
7 Ajloun Castle
Ajloun Castle is a 12th-century castle in Jordan that was built to defend the kingdom against attacks from the Crusaders. The castle is situated on a hilltop and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Ajloun Castle is a great place to learn about the history of the Crusades and see some of the best-preserved castles in Jordan.
- Address: قلعة عجلون، Ajloun, Jordan
- Working hours: 8am – 6pm
- Phone number: +96226420115
- On the map: link.
8 Amman Citadel Hill
The Citadel in Amman is a ancient fortress that was once the home of the Arab rulers of Jordan. The Citadel is now an archaeological site and museum, and it houses many ancient artifacts.
The most impressive structure in the Citadel is the Temple of Hercules. This temple was built in honor of the Roman god Hercules and is decorated with statues and reliefs.
From the Citadel Hill you can admire Roman Treatre.
- Address: K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein St. 146, Amman, Jordan
- Working hours: 8am – 8pm
- Phone number: +96264638795
- On the map: link.
9 Temple of Hercules in Amman
The Temple of Hercules in Amman is a ancient temple in Jordan that was built in the 2nd century BC.
The temple is dedicated to the Greek god Hercules and is one of the most well-preserved ancient temples in Jordan. The temple is a popular tourist destination and offers stunning views of the city of Amman.
- Address: Museum St 132, Amman, Jordan
- Working hours: 8am – 7pm
- Phone number: +962785085912
- On the map: link.
10 Temple of Artemis at Jerash
The Temple of Artemis at Jerash is another ancient temple that is significant for its well-preserved state.
This temple was built in honor of the Greek goddess Artemis, and though it has been damaged by earthquakes over the years, much of it still stands today.
The temple is one of the best-preserved ancient Greek temples in the world and is a popular tourist destination. The temple is built of marble and limestone and is decorated with statues and reliefs.
- Address: 7VJR+Q97, Jerash, Jordan
- Working hours: Mon-Fri – 8am – 5pm, Sat-Sun – 9am – 5pm
- On the map: link.
