5 / 5 - One review
How to get there
45 mins from Irbid by car Patience at the check points!
When to go
All year round
Minimum stay
One day
Umm Qais (Jordan)
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young shanahan
Practical information about Umm Qais
Reviews of Umm Qais
The archaeological site of Umm Qais is located approximately thirty kilometres from Irbid. Called Gadara in antiquity, the city belonged to the Greco-Roman Decapolis, a group of ten developed trading cities on both sides of the Jordan River.
My suggestion:
Be aware of the area's security conditions, because it is located on the borders of Syria and Israel.
Summary:
The site of Umm Qais is exceptional, it is one of my favourite visits, because although the city is reduced to Jerash, the setting is incredible. From the restaurant at the top, you can see the Golan Heights and the Sea of Galilee, it's magnificent. I also had a nice lunch there, on the outdoor terrace.
The old city is really well preserved, I pictured a lively city, especially on the Decumanus Maximus (the main street). You can visit the ruins with a guide (it's optional but very interesting) who gives excellent explanations on the way of life there: baths, theatres, small traders' lodgings...
You will learn that there was a 100km long underground aqueduct to send water to Umm Qais! The ruins of the Byzantine basilica, the underground mausoleum and the necropolis are spectacular.
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young shanahan
56 travellers' photos
