Darat al-Funun is a pleasant little hideaway in the rolling hills of Amman. The complex in actuality is made up of three separate "homes," 1920s villas completely restored for use as well as a 6th century Byzantine church. Each one has changing exhibitions which showcase contemporary Arab art. From video to photographs to installations to sculpture, Darat al-Funun plays a vital role in the arts community, and has lectures, performances, and other enriching experiences for the public. Entrance is free and has been ever since Darat al-Funun opened in 1993. The entire experience promotes a sense of calm, and these remarkable villas are the perfect place to experience high quality art. There is also a fabulous sun-soaked library with a host of books in both Arabic and English.
More than just exhibits of fine art, Dar al-Anda aims to promote all visual and auditory art. Hosting concerts, literary events, as well as gallery exhibitions, there is always something going on at Dar al-Anda. A large balcony has panoramic views of the city, and if you see something there that you just cannot stop thinking about later on, you can even buy some of the work online!
Towering on one of the jebels of the Amman Citadel, the Temple of Hercules is one of the most historically significant landmarks of the city. Steeped in Roman history, the temple was built when Roman General Geminius Marcianus ruled the Province of Arabia and was perhaps left incomplete during construction. The remnants of its portico’s six columns, with a height of 33 feet (10 meters), are proof of the temple’s monumental proportions. Remains of an unfinished statue of Hercules were found on the site. Made of stone, the statue’s enormous debris of three fingers and an elbow helped archaeologists to determine that the statue was at least 39 feet (12 meters) in height. Destructed by an earthquake, the statue and the temple are one of the most important Roman relics in Jordan.
Nestled in the Citadel of Amman, the Umayyad Palace is one of the most monumental complexes in the city. Built around 724 and 743 CE during the rule of Caliph Hisham, the palace is a defining Umayyad landmark in Amman. While the palace doesn’t retain its original opulence, the beige edifice crowned with a grey-colored dome still exudes past glory of the Umayyads. Influences of Byzantine architecture are evident in interiors as well as exteriors. The assembly hall is the most well preserved among other structures of the complex, with old stucco designs still visible today. The remains in this palatial complex comprise of a bathhouse, residential chambers, and even a throne room. Conquered later by Mamluks and Abbasids, the magnificent palace is an architectural wonder boasting of the Umayyad power.
The Citadel is a complex that overlooks downtown Amman, located at the very top of Amman's highest hill. It has been here that people have made their homes for thousands of years, and there are several artifacts that attest to this. Located on this hill is the National Archaeological Museum, the Temple of Hercules, and the Umayyad Palace. The towering pillars, ruins, and museum filled with antiquities offer a fascinating look at the history of the region. One could easily spend several hours here, but it is best to avoid visiting during the hottest part of the day, as there is little shade.
The Wild Jordan Cafe is a gem of a spot just off Rainbow Street. Its modern facade overlooks the soaring hills of Amman, and the view is great during the day or at night. Upon entering, to your left is a gift store featuring local products and there is also information about the nature preserves in Jordan. For those wishing to know more about this splendid country, there are a host of books and other publications which are fun to flip through and give ideas for what places you should visit while in Amman. The cafe has a great choice of organic meals, while the restaurant which opens at 6pm affords the best views of the whole complex and has equally delicious choices. Try the Avocado Chicken Sandwich or the soup of the day. Everything is fresh, tasty, and prepared and served with aplomb.
A much smaller version and located just next to the grand Roman Theater, the Odeon is a slightly older and more intimate theater. Around 500 spectators fit in its stone seats, and since its total renovation in 1997, the Odeon has often been used for events such as concerts and lectures. Although it has all that is needed for a modern performance, you would never know by looking at the theater that it has been changed, it has stayed true to its roots and is a beautiful example of Roman architecture.
This museum showcases the traditions of the local people from current times to bygone eras. Much of the museum is made of mannequins in various local dresses. Placards give short explanations about the exhibits, and off to one side is artwork and tile work from the region. The beautiful garments are enhanced by jewelry, and there truly are some gorgeous costumes on display. Admission to the museum is included in the entrance free to the Roman Theater.
A second-century colossus that was the centerpiece of ancient Philadelphia, the Roman Theater continues to dominate modern-day Amman. With its impressive cascade of cavea or seating enclosure, traditional orchestra, and the saenae fons or the backdrop, the theater represents the enduring grandeur of a bygone time. Designed with great forethought like several other structures during its time, one of its many interesting features is its ability to keep sunlight at bay - a result obtained due to its northerly orientation that ensured spectators' comfort. At its peak, the theater's vast complex could accommodate up to 6,000 people. Today, the theater promises a stirring glimpse into history through the two museums that flank its entrances - the Jordan Museum of Popular Tradition and the Jordan Folklore Museum. It also continues to be a key venue for several soirees and events, from the bi-annual Al-Balad Music Festival to the Amman International Book Fair.
In this interesting, if slightly bizarre museum, are a number of mannequins engaged in different tasks. There is a family of Bedouins off to one side complete with a goat-hair tent and a camel. More familiar lifestyles are also depicted, with women engaged in work around the home. Typical furniture and cloths of the region are shown and the museum makes for an interesting, if quick, portrait of the lifestyles of the people of the region. Perhaps the most fascinating part of the museum is in the entryway; here there are a series of large photographs of people and places in the area from recent years. Entrance to the museum is included in the entry fee to the Roman Theater.