Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in Amman and drive you to Jerash where we will arrange a private English site guide to explore the site for 2 hours. This well preserved city of the Roman Empire, often called Pompeii of the East, was nitially built by Alexander the Great. The city started to prosper after the Roman conquest, and was one of the Decapolis cities in northern Jordan. Visit Hadrian's Arch, built in 130 AD to honor the visit of Emperor Hadrian. Pass the Hippodrome offering space for 15,000 spectators, the impressing Forum, continue to the Temple of Artemis. Other highlights are the Colonnaded Street and the Nymphium.
After, continue the drive to Ajloun Castle built by one of the Islamic governors under Saladin, and was used as one of the principal bases in the expulsion of the crusading armies. The excellent state of preservation makes Ajloun Castle the best example of Islamic military architecture from the crusading era. The castle is in a great location with pretty rural views, as well as having towers, staircases, and myriad different chambers to explore.
After a short drive, arrive to Umm Qais, which is another former Decapolis city, but also features more recent Ottoman buildings and architecture. Beyond these however, the most impressive feature of the city is actually its location. It sits on a ridge overlooking the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights and the River Jordan, a magnificent and historic vista. Much of the Classical city was built in black basalt, which makes for impressive ruins - amongst the best of them are the theatre and a basilica courtyard dotted with black sarcophagi. After, we will transfer you back to your Amman hotel. End of services.
Private transportation with English speaking driver
English speaking site guide in Jerash for 2 hrs
Entrance Fees to Jerash, Ajloun Castle, Umm Qais
Personal travel insurance and expenses
Tips for the driver and site guide in Jerash
Any other expenses not mentioned