Jerash

From the Neolithic Jerash, which in the classical era was called Geraza, this is one of the best preserved ancient cities in the Middle East. Located in the northern part of Jordan, about 40 km north of Amman, he is one of the major tourist attractions of the country. Initiated in 20 - of the last century archaeological excavations show that people lived in this place already in the Neolithic era. The city was founded during the reign of Emperor Alexander of Macedonia (IV century BC. Er.). Visit to the city a better place to start is with a majestic Arch of Hadrian. Located near the racetrack-place horse races and sporting events. Go to the main area of ??excavations led South Gate. Behind them on the dais are fragments of the temple of Zeus II century. Next is the Southern Theatre auditorium for five thousand people. Among the monuments is to highlight the oval area of ??the I century, surrounded by Ionic columns. Not fully aware of its purpose-Some historians believe that this forum (or market), others argue that it was used for sacrifices. To the north of the area is carded a classic Roman main street, on both sides of which are columns, leading to a location 600 m north gate. Pavement bears traces of chariots. Walking along the Cardo, we pass the ancient agora, the market with a fountain. Moving on, we'll see Nymphaeum II century. This was the main city fountain and the temple of the nymphs at the same time, sumptuously decorated and inlaid with marble. Water flowed into the swimming pool, located in the front, and on through the sculptures in the form of lions' heads, into the channels. The most impressive building is the Temple of Artemis, the patroness of the city, which was originally surrounded by a colonnade, of which only survived a double row of front columns. Not far away are the remains of several Byzantine churches VI century with beautiful mosaic floors. Approaching the end of the cardo, the right we see the ruins of the Umayyad Mosque, which are located in western bath, decorated with a beautiful dome. Turn left on North tetrapilone lying on four arches, you can reach the North Theatre.