Amman Sightseeing

Amman may be a product of the 20th century but at its heart is the ancient Citadel of Rabbath Ammon. Sitting on top of Jabal Al-Qala'a, it can be seen throughout the city. Excavations are ongoing but so far archaeologists have uncovered remains from the Roman, Byzantine and Islamic periods. Jordan's small archaeological museum is on this site and contains the county's collection of Dead Sea Scrolls.

Most of the remains of the Roman city of Philadelphia can be seen from the Citadel and it's a short walk downhill to visit the remains of The Forum, Nymphaeum and Roman Theatre. The Museum of Popular Tradition and the Jordanian Folklore Museum are located on either side of the theatre stage.

Also worth visiting are the Royal Automobile Museum, which contains most of the vehicles owned by the late King Hussein, and the Hejaz Railway Station with its excellent museum and collection of working steam locomotives.

Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities
Third Circle
Tel: (06) 460 3360.
Website: www.tourism.jo

A selection of free glossy booklets, brochures and maps can be obtained from here. The Ministry has also established a unit to deal with customer care and a toll free line (tel: 0800 22 228) to provide visitors with assistance and listen to complaints. Most information can be obtained online at www.tourism.jo and www.visitjordan.com.