Perched atop Jebel Al Qala’a, the Amman Citadel is one of Jordan’s most historically significant sites. It’s hilltop location offers breathtaking panoramic views of the capital. Our visit to this ancient hilltop complex took us on a journey through multiple civilizations, from the Bronze Age to the Islamic era, each leaving its architectural and cultural imprint.
Amman Citadel: A Historic Crossroads
The Citadel has been continuously inhabited since the Neolithic period, making it one of the world’s oldest settlements. Historically known as Rabbath Ammon, it was once the capital of the Ammonite Kingdom. It later fell under Assyrian, Babylonian, Greek, Roman, Byzantine, and Islamic rule. The strategic hilltop location made it a fortified stronghold, and over time, various rulers expanded its structures. While little remains of its Bronze Age foundations, later civilizations built remarkable landmarks that still stand today.
The Temple of Hercules: A Roman Marvel
One of the first landmarks we encountered was the Temple of Hercules. This structure built during the reign of Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius (161–180 CE). Although only a few columns remain, the scale of the ruins hints at the temple’s former grandeur. Perhaps the most intriguing relic is a massive stone hand, believed to be part of a colossal statue of Hercules. The statue once towered over the site. Archaeologists estimate that the statue could have stood up to 13 meters tall, making it one of the largest marble sculptures of the Roman world.
The Umayyad Palace: A Glimpse of Early Islamic Grandeur at the Amman Citadel
Moving further into the Citadel, we explored the Umayyad Palace, one of the best-preserved structures at the site. Built in the 8th century during the Umayyad Caliphate, this palace was likely the residence of a high-ranking official. The most striking feature is its domed audience hall, showcasing early Islamic and Byzantine architectural influences. The palace once housed administrative buildings, a mosque, and an elaborate water system, but much of it was destroyed by an earthquake.
The Byzantine Church: Traces of Early Christianity
Nestled between the Roman and Umayyad ruins are the remnants of a 6th-century Byzantine church. Only a few stone columns and fragments of mosaics remain, yet the site is a testament to Amman’s diverse religious history. It was fascinating to see how different faiths and civilizations coexisted on this single hill.
The Jordan Archaeological Museum
Before leaving, we visited the Jordan Archaeological Museum, a small but rich collection of artifacts excavated from the Citadel and beyond. Highlights include the Ain Ghazal statues, some of the world’s oldest known human sculptures, dating back to 6000–8000 BCE.
The View from Jebel Al Qala’a
Beyond its historical significance, the Amman Citadel offers one of the best panoramic views of the city. Standing on its walls, we could see the bustling streets below, with the Roman Theater and modern Amman stretching into the horizon. It was a powerful reminder of how Jordan’s past and present exist side by side.
Final Thoughts on the Amman Citadel
Our visit to the Amman Citadel was an unforgettable experience, offering a rare chance to walk through thousands of years of history in a single site. Whether you’re drawn to Roman ruins, Islamic architecture, or panoramic views, this archaeological treasure is a must-visit when in Amman.
