Amman Citadel: A Journey Through Ancient History
Discover the Amman Citadel, a historical landmark showcasing Jordan's rich heritage with stunning views and fascinating archaeological treasures.
A brief summary to Amman Citadel
- K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein St. 146, Amman, Al Madinah, JO
- +96264638795
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-7 pm
- Thursday 8 am-7 pm
- Friday 8 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8 am-7 pm
- Sunday 8 am-5:30 pm
The Amman Citadel, known locally as Jabal al-Qal'a, is a historical treasure that stands as one of the most significant archaeological sites in Jordan. Perched on a hilltop, it offers panoramic views of the bustling city of Amman and a captivating glimpse into the region's rich historical tapestry. Visitors can explore the remnants of ancient civilizations, including the Roman Temple of Hercules and the Byzantine Church, which narrate tales of the past dating back to the Bronze Age. As you wander through the grounds, each stone tells a story. The Citadel's well-preserved structures, such as the Umayyad Palace and the iconic 13-meter-tall columns of the Hercules Temple, invite you to imagine the grandeur of the historical periods that shaped this site. The archaeological museum within the Citadel showcases a variety of artifacts, including statues, pottery, and inscriptions that highlight the area's diverse cultural heritage. The best time to visit the Amman Citadel is during the cooler months, when the weather is pleasant for exploration. The site is open year-round, with extended hours during weekdays, making it convenient for tourists to plan their visit. As you take in the breathtaking views and immerse yourself in history, don’t forget to capture the moment with stunning photographs that will serve as lasting memories of your journey through Jordan's past.
Local tips
- Visit during early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and beautiful lighting for photography.
- Allocate at least two hours to fully explore the Citadel and its museum.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the terrain can be uneven and requires some walking.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities are limited on-site.
- Consider visiting other nearby attractions, like the Roman Theater, to enrich your experience.
Getting There
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Walking
From Abdoun, head towards K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein Street. If you are at Abdoun Circle, exit the circle towards the east onto Al-Bayader Street. Continue straight until you reach the intersection with K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein Street. Turn left onto K. Ali Ben Al-Hussein Street. Follow this street for about 1.5 kilometers. You will see signs for Amman Citadel. The entrance is located at the top of the hill, and there may be a small entrance fee of around 2 Jordanian Dinars.
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Public Bus
From Abdoun, locate the nearest bus stop on Al-Bayader Street. Take a bus heading towards downtown Amman. Ensure to ask the driver to let you know when you reach the stop for the Citadel or Al-Balad area. Once you disembark, you can either walk uphill towards the Citadel or take a local taxi for a short ride if you prefer. The bus fare is typically around 0.30 Jordanian Dinars.
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Taxi
You can easily find taxis in Abdoun. Simply wave one down or ask your hotel to call one for you. Inform the driver that you want to go to Amman Citadel. The drive should take about 10-15 minutes depending on traffic, and the fare will be around 3-5 Jordanian Dinars. Be sure to confirm the fare before starting your journey.