Exploring Amman

Start your journey of discovery at the ancient Citadel, towering above the city, where Amman began, at least 5000 years ago. Pause for a moment to study the traces of Amman's many lives: the regal columns of the Roman Temple of Hercules in silhouette against the sky, the elegant capitals of the Byzantine church, and the endlessly inventive carvings in the Umayyad Palace.

Take a seat in the Roman Amphitheater, a deep-sided bowl carved into the hill and still used for cultural events, as is the Odeon, an intimate small theater now beautifully restored.

Admire traditional costumes & crafts in Amman's well-presented museums - marvelous embroidery, and antique jewelry of gold, silver, amber and coral - and get a fascinating glimpse of Bedouin life. Move on to the works of modern Jordanian artists in one of several galleries - Jordan has a lively arts scene, with new events occurring almost daily.

Allow Amman to tempt you with coffee, Arabic-style - strong, sweet and slightly scented - and delicious pastries in a typical downtown coffee house. Watch the locals playing backgammon and cards, reading the newspaper, or just gossiping. And why not try an Argeelah, the traditional Hubble-Bubble water pipe, as an accompaniment?

Amman is a safe and friendly city to walk around, and a stroll is the best way to discover its hidden treasures - lovely turn-of-the-century villas in Rainbow Street, glamorous modern residences in Abdoun, hidden gardens, Amman's unassuming parks, and gaily decorated shop-fronts where colorful tiles and curving Arabic script compete with elaborate window-dressing for your attention.