Northern Jordan is often overshadowed by famous destinations like Petra or the Dead Sea, but it offers a treasure trove of experiences for travelers seeking both historical depth and natural beauty. Two of the most compelling stops in this region are Jerash, home to one of the best-preserved Roman cities outside Italy, and Ajloun, known for its majestic forest reserves and medieval castle. Together, these destinations make for a perfect cultural and nature-filled getaway from Amman—only 45 to 90 minutes by car.
Jerash: The Pompeii of the East
Often referred to as the “Pompeii of the East,” Jerash is one of the most impressive Greco-Roman archaeological sites in the world. Walking through Jerash feels like stepping back in time, with its colonnaded streets, amphitheaters, temples, and plazas astonishingly intact after more than 2,000 years.
Top Sites in Jerash:
- Hadrian’s Arch: A monumental gateway built to honor Emperor Hadrian’s visit in 129 AD.
- Oval Plaza: A massive, uniquely shaped forum surrounded by Ionic columns.
- Temple of Artemis: One of the city’s most iconic structures, dedicated to the patron goddess of Jerash.
- South & North Theaters: Ancient Roman amphitheaters still used today for music and cultural performances.
- Cardo Maximus: The main Roman road lined with columns, shops, and underground drainage systems.
Jerash is also famous for its Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts, held each summer. This festival brings the ruins to life with music, dance, poetry, and traditional crafts, attracting artists and visitors from all over the Arab world.
Ajloun: Castles and Green Hills
A short 30-minute drive from Jerash takes you to the Ajloun region, one of the greenest parts of Jordan. Here, the hills are covered in olive trees, pine forests, and wildflowers, especially vibrant in the spring.
The main attraction in Ajloun is Ajloun Castle (Qal’at Ar-Rabad), a 12th-century fortress built by one of Saladin’s generals to protect the area against Crusader invasions. The castle offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Jordan Valley, and on clear days, you can even see parts of Syria and Palestine.
Highlights in Ajloun:
- Ajloun Castle: Walk through its arched chambers, towers, and defense rooms to get a feel of medieval military architecture.
- Ajloun Forest Reserve: Managed by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, this eco-reserve is ideal for hiking, birdwatching, and enjoying Jordan’s natural biodiversity.
- Soap House & Biscuit House: Local women’s cooperatives that produce handmade natural soap and traditional Jordanian snacks.
Cultural Encounters and Ecotourism
Both Jerash and Ajloun are excellent places to experience authentic Jordanian village life. Local homestays and eco-lodges offer opportunities to engage with communities, try home-cooked meals, and support rural tourism initiatives. You’ll often find families eager to share their traditions, from olive pressing to bread baking.
Travel Tips:
- Best time to visit: Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) offer the best weather and scenery.
- What to wear: Comfortable walking shoes for Jerash and layers for cooler temperatures in Ajloun, especially in the evening.
- Day trip or overnight? You can visit both in one day from Amman, but staying overnight in Ajloun allows for more relaxation and hiking in the forest reserve.
A Perfect Balance of Past and Present
Whether you’re admiring the towering columns of a Roman temple in Jerash or soaking in the serenity of a forest trail in Ajloun, this northern duo offers a refreshing contrast to the desert landscapes of southern Jordan. It’s a region where history, culture, and nature coexist beautifully—and it’s well worth adding to your itinerary.
