For many, the typical visit to Amman involves a rushed trip from arriving late at night to leaving early in the morning for Petra. However, beyond its modern appearance, Jordan's capital, Amman, holds ancient origins and a rich culinary heritage. Those who stay for a day or two will find a city that has a lot more to offer than what first meets the eye.

In this guide, we'll explore the less-known aspects of Amman, uncovering its culinary treasures and ancient historical sites. From tasty street foods to cooking lessons, and from Roman theaters to old citadels, Amman offers a variety of experiences waiting to be explored.

Street-Food Tour

Amman's culinary scene offers a tapestry of flavors through its lively street-food culture. Embark on a guided tour to explore the city's streets and enjoy the diverse range of local delicacies.

Start your culinary journey at a local bakery, where you can witness the mesmerizing process of shaping tabun, a lightly leavened flatbread. Cooked in a traditional clay oven fueled by wood, tabun has a unique texture—charred, chewy, and completely distinct.

Wander through the narrow streets, stopping at small shops to taste refreshing cold sugar cane juice or try manakish, a soft bread topped with cheese or meat. Join the line at Habibah Sweets, a famous spot, to indulge in kanafeh, Jordan's national dessert—a delightful mix of crispy semolina, sweet rose syrup, and chopped pistachios.

Wrap up ypur culinary journey at Hashem, a modest yet acclaimed restaurant frequented by locals and even royalty. Here, you won’t need a menu; instead let the array of Jordanian specialties unfold before you. Enjoy dishes like tabbouleh, moutabel, ful medames, hummus, and fattet hummus—a delicious combination of grilled flatbread, tahini sauce, hummus, pine nuts, olive oil, parsley, and cumin.

Cooking Class at Beit Sitti

For a hands-on experience of Jordanian cuisine, consider joining a cooking class at Beit Sitti, which means 'Grandmother's Kitchen.' Led by the skilled young chef Maria, the class is held in her grandmother's kitchen, a delightful space decorated with painted dishes and copper-bottom pots.

During the class, under Maria's guidance, participants engage in the art of crafting a classic, four-course meal using local and seasonal vegetables. From preparing mujadara—an enticing blend of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions—to enjoying the meal together, the cooking class at Beit Sitti provides an authentic experience of Jordan's culinary heritage.

Historical Roots

Although Amman may seem mostly modern today, it holds ancient origins dating back to antiquity. It served as the capital of the Ammonites in the 13th century BC and experienced conquests by the Egyptians, Nabataeans, and Romans throughout history.

The historical traces of Amman are preserved in the area called Philadelphia, named during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus. Despite the passage of time and earthquakes, important remnants still exist, offering a glimpse into the city's rich past.

Roman Theatre and Citadel

Philadelphia is home to the impressive Roman theatre, a symmetrical wonder carved into a hillside facing north. With space for 6,000 viewers, the theatre still hosts contemporary performances, maintaining its legacy from ancient times.

Above the theatre is the Citadel, an ancient fortified stronghold situated on a tall hill since the Bronze Age. Key attractions include the three pillars indicating the Temple of Hercules and the Islamic Palace, a group of structures dating back to the 8th century.

Jordan Museum

For a deep dive into Jordan's rich history, make sure to visit the Jordan Museum located near the city hall. This modern and stylish building showcases artifacts ranging from the Palaeolithic Age to modern times, including the oldest human statues known from Ain Ghazal, dating back approximately 9,500 years.

The museum’s Petra exhibition provides fascinating insights into the ancient city and the Nabataeans who influenced its development. Moreover, the Dead Sea Scrolls, containing fragments in Hebrew, Nabataean, Greek, and Aramaic, offer a captivating link to ancient Jewish writings.

Jerash: A Glimpse into Byzantine Trading

An hour’s drive north of Amman, Jerash stands as a remarkably well-maintained city, with streets and structures reflecting its Byzantine heritage. Being part of the Decapolis, a Byzantine trade network, Jerash flourished under Roman rule.

Begin your exploration early in the day to admire the grandeur of Hadrian's Arch and the straight Roman main road. Noteworthy sights include the Temple of Artemis, adorned with 11 intact columns, and the excellently preserved Roman amphitheater.

Umm Qais: Echoes of Roman Grandeur

Another hour’s drive north from Jerash lies Umm Qais, another member of the Decapolis, featuring Roman-era ruins against abandoned Ottoman buildings. The use of volcanic basalt in construction lends a striking aspect to the remains.

Admire the Roman amphitheater, basilica courtyard, and intricately crafted columns showcasing remarkable craftsmanship. The city's elevated location provides stunning panoramic views of the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and the River Jordan.

Ajloun Castle: Crusader Legacy

Located an hour south of Umm Qais, Ajloun Castle stands prominently atop a hill. Built during the Crusades by Saladin's forces, the castle served a pivotal role in defending against Christian invasions.

Through weathered, Ajloun Castle's position provides sweeping panoramic vistas of the Jordan Valley. The surrounding forest reserve, home to a variety of plant species, is especially captivating during April and May when wildflowers come into bloom. 

Iraq Al-Amir and Qasr Al Abad: Pre-Roman Marvels

Approximately 45 minutes west of Amman, Iraq Al Amir reveals an intriguing piece of pre-Roman history. Qasr Al Abad, meaning the 'Castle of the Slave,' stands as a unique example of ancient construction, surrounded by conflicting legends.

Discover the distinctive walls of Qasr Al Abad, decorated with animal carvings, and delve into the mysteries surrounding its origin—an alleged Jewish temple, a palace, or a luxurious villa. The site offers insight into the historical richness of the region beyond its famous landmarks

Extended Exploration

Contrary to the hurried pace of many visitors, spending an extra day or two in Amman unveils the city's rich history and lively culinary culture. Beyond its modern appearance, Amman serves as a gateway to exploring the ancient sites of northern Jordan.

Historical Sites Around Amman

While Jerash is a well-known attraction, consider exploring Umm Qais, Ajloun Castle, Iraq Al Amir, and Qasr Al Abad for a comprehensive exploration of Jordan's historical heritage. These lesser-explored treasures offer diverse insights into the country's past.

Amman's Living History

Amman's historical significance extends beyond ancient ruins. Wander through the city's streets and neighborhoods, discover traces of past civilizations, gaining a deeper understanding of its evolution. Explore landmarks like the Roman theatre, Citadel, and the Jordan Museum to uncover layers of history woven into the city’s fabric.

Modern and Ancient Fusion

Amman seamlessly blends modern amenities with ancient traditions, creating a distinct atmosphere. Experience the contrast between contemporary city life and historical landmarks. Explore bustling markets, indulge in local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the living history that fills Amman's streets.