Jerash, Jordan

Located 30 miles north of Amman, near Syria, is the ancient Greco-Roman city of Jerash—often referred to as the "Pompeii of the Middle East" for its level of preservation, immense size, and extent of excavation. However, unlike Pompeii, Jerash was not buried beneath the ash of a volcanic eruption. As one of the most important and best preserved Roman cities in the Near East, it was once part of the Decapolis and inhabited as early as the Bronze Age in 3200-1200 BC.

After conquering by Rome in 63 BC, Jerash flourished through the 1st and 2nd centuries AD while enjoying peace and security. In the 3rd century it was reborn as a Christian city under Byzantine rule and the addition of 7 churches rounded out its cityscape. However, Persian invasion in 614 AD and Muslim capture in 635 ignited a rapid decline, which put the city to rest after an earthquake in 749 AD destroyed much of what was left.

Since 1920, the ancient city of Jerash has been continuously excavated and restored leading to an impressive site rich with history and the remnants of a past life.

Hadrian's Arch, south side entrance

Hippodrome—home to chariot races and sporting events

South Gate—part of the 4th century AD city wall

Inside the Oval Plaza

The Oval Plaza measures 90 x 80 meters and is surrounded by 1st-century Ionic columns

The stage in the amphitheater near the Temple of Zeus

Seating within the amphitheater

A random performance of Amazing Grace

Old Jerash meets New Jerash

Pieces of old columns stack up precariously to create a new one

The column and broken stone graveyard