A brief glimpse into the Roman city of central Jordan

The sun was just beginning to set. The South Gate entrance was quite crowded, and everyone was streaming in at once, as if we were transported into a new scene from a movie. These towering stone arches were more than just a passageway, but symbols of the city's former power and glory. The columns stood as a welcome sign, announcing to visitors, "This is one of the most complete Roman cities outside of Italy."

After the gates, the bustle gradually subsided, leaving only narrow passageways and quiet stone walls, a breather before stepping into the city's main area.

Then, my eyes caught sight of the Temple of Artemis, perched high on a hill. The Corinthian columns have stood the test of time, though mostly in ruins, yet they still reveal the sacredness that captivated people in the 2nd century. Artemis, the goddess of the hunt, moonlight, and fertility, was revered as the city's protector. Every step up the stone steps was not just a climb, but a step from the mortal world to the sacred ground, where blessings for crops, safety, and family life could be made.

Looking down from the hill, I saw the long colonnade (Cardo Maximus) and the sounds of life playing in my head—carts laden with goods. Soldiers patrolling, vendors calling out to customers—a picture of a city still breathing beneath the rubble.

Nearby is the Forum (Oval Plaza), a unique Roman city. Built in an oval shape, surrounded by over 50 stone pillars, it was the public heart of the city, where people met, traded, and participated in religious ceremonies. Stand in the center and spin around, and you'll instantly feel the entire city strung together from this very spot.

Two and a half hours passed quickly. A half-hour afternoon in Jerash didn't allow us to see every nook and cranny, but it was enough to prove that Jordan is more than just Petra or the Red Sea—it also contains a surviving Roman metropolis that tells endless stories.

#jordan #Jerah

Post by Mr. Choon | Sep 13, 2025