Saint George’s Church in Madaba, also known as the “Church of the Map.” It is one of Jordan’s most fascinating historical sites. Built in the late 19th century, the Greek Orthodox church is famous for housing the remarkable Madaba Mosaic Map. This amazing 6th-century floor mosaic depicts a map of the Holy Land. It is believed the map provided perspective for visiting pilgrims.
The Famous Mosaic at Saint George’s Church
This extraordinary mosaic, crafted from over two million colored stones, is the oldest surviving cartographic representation of the region. It features Jerusalem at its center, the Jordan River, the Dead Sea, and even the Nile Delta. Despite only about a fifth of the original map remaining, its intricate details continue to captivate visitors and historians alike.
Saint George’s Church Architecture
Beyond the famous mosaic, Saint George’s Church is a beautiful example of Orthodox Christian architecture, with graceful colonnades and stunning iconography. The mosaic’s historical significance lies in its depiction of early Christian sites and landmarks, offering insight into Byzantine-era geographical knowledge and religious influence.
It is believed that the exaggerated size of Jerusalem on the map reflects its importance in Christianity, while other symbols, such as fish swimming in the Jordan River, have been interpreted as references to Christian gatherings. The original Byzantine Church was built in the 6th Century. We appreciated the deep historical roots of both the modern church (1800s) as well as its Byzantine predecessor.
Enjoying the Serenity
During our visit, we were struck by the church’s peaceful atmosphere and its role as both a religious site and an archaeological treasure. Madaba itself is known as Jordan’s “City of Mosaics,” and Saint George’s Church is undoubtedly its crown jewel. The atmosphere inside was one of reverence. While there were several other people present, we were able to enjoy the tranquility of the church.
Useful Information
Saint George’s Church in Madaba, Jordan, is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The admission fee is 1 Jordanian Dinar (JD), and it is not included in the Jordan Pass. While it doesn’t take long to visit this site, the cost of admission is well worth the experience.
Visitors should be mindful of religious services, as the church opens early for Mass on Fridays and Sundays. To enhance the experience, hiring a local guide can provide deeper insights into the mosaic’s history and symbolism. Exploring the surrounding area, including local shops and eateries, also adds to the charm of visiting this remarkable site. We had lunch at nearby Haret Jdoudna, which was an excellent meal.
