Another remarkable remnant of old Roman Decapolis city of Philadelphia, the Nymphaeum of Amman is the largest in the region of its kind. Even in its partial preservation state, it is larger than the public fountains in Jerash, Umm Qays (Gadara) and Petra.
It was built in 191 AD next to a river that now lies under the modern road behind. It was dedicated to the water nymphs. A paved plaza was laid in front of it for public access and gatherings. Architectural decorative elements are laid around that testify of the former grandeur of the edifice. You can appreciate animal and human figures including a lion, lioness and a male bust (the head of which is displayed inside the Jordan Archaeological Museum at the Citadel). One of the small niches still have some original marble cladding next to the ground.
The site was under restoration and preservation from 1993 until October 2018 when the site was reopened as the Nymphaeum Archaeological Park in Amman. There are nine informative signboards and a small 3D model of the Nymphaeum as it would have looked like in its glory days.
The site metal door might be closed during business hours, but a guard is usually inside. If so, draw his attention to open it and enjoy this new renovated addition to the bustling historic center of Amman. A must see with the added bonus of being...
Read moreThe Roman Nymphaeum in downtown Amman is a remarkable archaeological site that reflects the city’s rich Greco-Roman history. Built in the 2nd century AD, this grand public fountain once served as a gathering place and a source of water for the people of ancient Philadelphia (Amman today). Its elegant design, marble decorations, and traces of intricate carvings showcase the architectural brilliance of the Roman era.
I highly recommend visiting the Roman Nymphaeum, not only to appreciate its historical and cultural significance but also to witness how Amman’s ancient heritage continues to stand proudly amid the modern city. It is a site that deserves greater attention, preservation, and promotion as part of Jordan’s...
Read moreThe Sirens Sabil was built two thousand years ago in the historic center of Amman, near its grand amphitheater, the Odeon Theater and Jabal al-Qalaa. Currently, it is located on Quraish Street - which is the roof of Al-Sail Street, which was built over the course of the ancient Amman River. Small semicircular energies were also placed, which were arranged in two rows one above the other. The use of the building was not limited to bathing with hot water, as it has a large terrace that is believed to have been used as a theater, in addition to huge structures, statues and other monuments that are still buried. The cities of the Decapolis, a federation of ten Greek-Roman cities located in the Levant,...
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