Jarash’s ancient architectural history is reflected in a range of structures: theaters, a colonnaded street, and the Great Eastern Baths. The ancient city of Jarash was founded in the 4th century BC, during the time of Alexander the Great. This combination gives a stay a clear cultural and historical focus: architecture, past uses, and urban layout offer different perspectives on the history of the place. If you are particularly interested in Roman architecture, these topics can be organized around specific differences.
Ancient Theaters: Design and Possible Uses
The South Theater was built between 80 and 96 AD according to a typical Roman theater plan; its estimated capacity was more than 3,000 people. It is the largest and oldest of the three ancient theaters in Jarash. The other two are the North Theater and the Theater of Birketein. The stage backdrop of the South Theater is also a distinctive architectural detail: it had at least two tiers of Corinthian columns. Thus, one building brings together a specific period of construction, an estimated size, and a multi-tiered stage backdrop.
The North Theater, also called the Odeum, probably served, among other purposes, for poetry readings, musical performances, public gatherings, and religious speeches. Its possible uses therefore ranged from cultural performances to meetings and speeches. Comparing the three theaters can add to the picture of Jarash: the South Theater is described in particular through its construction period, size, and stage design; for the North Theater, the likely range of past uses is the main focus.
The Cardo Maximus and Its Columns
The Cardo Maximus extends for approximately 805 meters from the northern tip of the Oval Plaza to the North Gate. Side colonnades with Corinthian columns line the street. In the section between the northern cross street and the North Gate, the columns are Ionic. Its length, endpoints, and column orders give the colonnaded street several specific features by which to understand it. While the South Theater is described through its stage design and estimated capacity, the route and architecture are the key points of reference for the Cardo Maximus.
Eastern Baths, Museum, and Market
The Great Eastern Baths consist of three main rooms with vaulted ceilings. They are the only significant building from the Roman period on the eastern bank of the Wadi. This adds a different type of building to the theaters and colonnaded street, with main rooms and a location that can be clearly identified.
The Jerash Archaeological Museum is also one of the city’s cultural and historical points of interest; it was founded in 1985. The tourism authority’s description lists 47 shops at the Jerash Handicraft Market, selling oriental antiques and local Jordanian products. The number of shops and the selection may change. The museum and market thus complement the architectural themes with a museum or market visit as additional interests to consider when planning a trip.
Considering Jarash as a Place to Stay
These topics offer different ways to plan a stay around your own interests, without requiring a particular order.
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Go to the main travel overview: Jordan.
