Guided Daily Tours to The city of Jerash, Jordan

**Sight in Israel: The Ancient Splendor of Jerash, Jordan**

While Israel itself teems with historically significant sights, its neighboring region is equally rich in antiquities, leading travelers on an extended journey through time. One such marvel, though not in Israel but nearby in Jordan, is the city of Jerash. This city, known for its beautifully preserved Roman ruins, is a testament to the grandeur and influence of ancient Rome in the Near East.

**A Brief Overview**

Jerash, known in antiquity as Gerasa, was one of the cities of the Decapolis, a group of ten cities that formed a confederation in the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire. Nestled in the fertile valleys of northern Jordan, Jerash thrived due to its location on crucial trade routes.

**Interesting Fact**: Though the ruins of Jerash have been prominent for centuries, many of the site's wonders lay hidden beneath the sands until archaeologists began extensive excavations in the 20th century.

**Arch of Hadrian**

One of the first structures greeting visitors upon entering Jerash is the majestic Arch of Hadrian. Constructed in 129 AD to honor Roman Emperor Hadrian's visit, this grand archway stands as an enduring testament to the might and reach of the Roman Empire.

**Oval Plaza**

Beyond the arch, visitors encounter the Oval Plaza, a unique and vast open space surrounded by a broad colonnade. Spanning 90 meters in length and 80 meters in width, this elliptical forum serves as an architectural marvel, showcasing the urban planning and design prowess of the Romans.

**The Temples of Zeus and Artemis**

Jerash boasts two significant temples: the Temple of Zeus and the Temple of Artemis. While both are impressive, the Temple of Artemis, with its towering Corinthian columns, is particularly remarkable. Dedicated to the patron goddess of the city, this temple highlights the fusion of Roman and local religious practices.

**Interesting Fact**: A few of the original columns at the Temple of Artemis are still standing, and they exhibit an intriguing phenomenon. When the wind blows, these columns sway gently, an effect that has baffled engineers and visitors alike for years.

**The Roman Theaters**

Jerash is home to two Roman theaters. The larger of the two, the South Theater, can accommodate over 3,000 spectators. These amphitheaters are not only architecturally sound but also acoustically advanced. Today, they host the Jerash Festival, a major cultural event where artists from around the world perform, echoing the arts and performances of ancient times.

**The Cardo Maximus**

Perhaps one of the most impressive aspects of Jerash is the Cardo Maximus, a colonnaded street stretching for 800 meters. Lined with the remains of doorframes, shops, and intricate stone carvings, this thoroughfare offers a glimpse into the daily life of the ancient city.

**Jerash in Context**

To understand the importance of Jerash, one must consider its broader historical context. The city reached its zenith during the 2nd and 3rd centuries AD. However, a devastating earthquake in 749 AD, combined with changing trade routes, led to its decline. Many of the ruins visible today are from its heyday under Roman rule, showcasing the city's importance within the empire.

**Modern Jerash**

While the ancient ruins are the primary draw, modern Jerash is a bustling city with its own charm. It stands as a bridge between ancient traditions and contemporary Jordanian life.

**Preservation Efforts**

Recognizing the historical importance and the potential for tourism, the Jordanian government and international organizations have undertaken significant efforts to preserve and restore the ruins of Jerash. These endeavors ensure that the site remains an accessible window into the past for future generations.

**Conclusion**

Though not within Israel's borders, Jerash complements any historical and archaeological journey in the region. As one walks through its ancient streets, amidst the shadows of towering columns and grand edifices, it becomes clear why Jerash is often dubbed the "Pompeii of the East." The city offers a tangible link to an era when emperors and gladiators, merchants and artisans thrived under the banner of Rome. For history enthusiasts and casual travelers alike, Jerash promises a rich, immersive experience, transporting one back to the golden age of the Roman Empire in the heart of the Middle East.