The first stop upon arriving in Jordan is Amman, known as the "City of Seven Hills." In the 11th century BCE, the worshippers of the Egyptian sun god Amun established their capital on Citadel Hill. Back then, the capital was called "Ammon," which gradually evolved into "Amman." Amman is often called the "City of Seven Hills" because the entire city is built upon seven hills.
Contents
◦ Historical Center
The old town, with a history spanning a thousand years, is situated on the east side of Amman and extends outward from the Castle area.
01｜Amman Citadel
The Amman Citadel, also known as Castle Hill, is a commanding point in Amman. Ruled by various empires from the Romans to the Islamic Empire, Castle Hill does not refer to a castle from a specific dynasty but is a historical site that has been built up over a thousand years.
Opening Hours: 0800-1900 Ticket: 3 JOD (10/2023) You can enter by using Jordan Pass.
02｜Roman Temple of Hercules
The most striking ruin on Castle Hill has to be the Temple of Hercules! Built in the 2nd century AD, the Temple of Hercules, although only three columns remain today, it is not hard to imagine how magnificent it was back in the day.
03｜Roman Theater
The Roman Theater, which was also constructed in the 2nd century AD, is situated at the foot of Amman's Castle Hill. It is a significant historical landmark that accurately portrays the Roman way of life. The theater can hold approximately 6,000 spectators. What's amazing is that no matter where you sit, you can clearly hear the sound from the stage.
Opening Hours: 0800-2000 Ticket: 2 JOD (10/2023) You can enter by using Jordan Pass.
04｜Market Next to the Mosque
The liveliest place in the old town of Amman is the market near the Grand Husseini Mosque. Starting at 8 a.m., shops selling fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, spices, and furniture open one after another, creating a vibrant atmosphere!
05｜The Jordan Museum
The Jordan Museum, which was built in 2014, is currently the largest museum in Jordan. It primarily houses Jordan's most significant archaeological finds. Two main permanent exhibitions are the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Ain Ghazal statues. These statues, which can be traced back as far as 9,000 years ago, are among the oldest human figures.
Ticket: 5 JOD (10/2023)
06｜Rainbow Street
Rainbow Street becomes more lively as the night progresses, boasting some of the city's finest dining restaurants, coffee shops, and boutiques. AlQuds Falafel, a shop on this street, has been in business since 1966, specializing in serving falafel exclusively. No matter when you visit, you will see a crowd of people lining up, drawn by its reputation!
◦ New Town
Entering the new town on the west side of Amman, you will see one luxury hotel and shopping mall after another, with City Mall being particularly notable. A visit to City Mall is not complete without stopping by Carrefour, where the prices are reasonable and the selection is vast, ensuring that you will definitely leave with bags full!
Opening Hours: 1000-2300 Location: King Abdulla II Street, Amman
◦ Restaurants
01｜Hashem Restaurant Down Town
Every time I pass by Hashem Restaurant, I'm always shocked by the crowds. After all, a restaurant that offers delicious food at affordable prices is bound to be packed! Once you find a seat, the waiter will immediately serve a vegetable platter, featuring fresh and crisp onions, tomatoes, and mint. My favorite dish here is Hummus, a chickpea paste mixed with yogurt and fresh olive oil. It is absolutely delicious!
Opening Hours: 24/7 Location: King Faisal Street, Amman
02｜ Al Basha Shawarma
This is my favorite restaurant in the old town! The chicken shawarma has a chewy crust, and the marinated chicken is juicy. It is incredibly delicious and offers a unique flavor that is unlike anything I have tasted in Taiwan!
03｜AIQuds Falafel
It has been in business since 1966, serving only falafel. No matter when you visit, you'll see a crowd of people lining up, drawn by its reputation!
Opening Hours: 0700-2200 Location: Rainbow St. 41, Amman
04｜Bekdash
The operator of Bekdash is from Syria, and the signature dessert of this shop is Booza, which is covered in pistachio nuts. The smooth and stretchy Booza, which doesn't melt easily, is an indispensable refreshment in desert areas!
Location: Abu Nseir, Amman
05｜Habibah Sweets
A friend who has spent time in the Middle East recommended that I try the cheese pastry called Knafeh. Upon the first bite, the rich aroma of sheep's milk envelops you, followed by a delightful sweetness that melts in your mouth. This is a dessert that anyone with a sweet tooth is sure to love!
Opening Hours: 0800-2400 Location: K. Hussein St., Amman
06｜Samer’s Oven
This is a thin-crust pizza specialty shop located opposite Galleria Mall and is also a favorite among local residents. The Manaqeesh thin-crust pizza offers a wide variety of fillings, such as cheese, thyme, and egg.
Opening Hours: 0700-2030 Located in the alley opposite Galleria Mall.