1. Explore the Amman Citadel
You don’t have to go far to see amazing archeological ruins in Jordan’s capital. Perched atop the highest hill in the city, the Amman Citadel is conveniently located downtown and offers incredible views of the destination.
But more than just a lookout point, the Citadel is home to historical attractions that date as far back as the Bronze Age. Take a look at the two massive pillars on a podium — those landmarks are what remain of the Temple of Hercules, an important Roman structure that once linked this area with the Forum. Nearby, you can see a large, smooth stone sculpture of three bent fingers. The humanizing fragment was once part of a colossal statue of Hercules, which experts believe may have stood more than 12 meters tall. It gives tourists a sense of how majestic the Citadel was during its heyday.
2. Visit the Roman Theater
When it comes to things to do in Amman, swinging by the Roman Theater is high on the list — and for good reason. The antique attraction perfectly blends historic Jordanian heritage with the city’s vibrant modern-day life.
A 20-minute walk from the Amman Citadel, the restored Roman Theater deepens tourists’ understanding of what Amman may have been like when the city went by the name «Philadelphia,» nearly 2,000 years ago. The architectural masterpiece features a set of steep, curving stairs that can seat up to 6,000 people. Interestingly, the amphitheater was built to face the north in order to offer some sun protection for its spectators. Get here early in the day for the best lighting for photos.
Today, the Roman Theater hosts some of Amman’s most important cultural events, including summer concerts and plays. It’s also home to two interesting museums: the Jordan Museum of Popular Traditions and the Jordan Folklore Museum, both of which have great costume collections on display.
Address: Taha Al-Hashemi St., Amman