Cultural Tours Of Jordan - Enjoy Food And Culture
Cultural tours of Jordan are a wonderful way to immerse oneself in the rich history, traditions, and customs of this fascinating country. Jordan is a land of ancient civilizations, diverse cultural influences, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
Author:Tyreece BauerReviewer:Tobey StricklandMay 31, 202370.2K Shares936.6K Views
Cultural tours of Jordanare a wonderful way to immerse oneself in the rich history, traditions, and customs of this fascinating country. Jordan is a land of ancient civilizations, diverse cultural influences, and breathtaking natural landscapes.
From the Nabatean city of Petra to the Dead Sea and the desert landscape of Wadi Rum, there is so much to explore and discover on a cultural tour of Jordan.
In this article, we will explore some of the top cultural tours in Jordan and what makes this country such a unique and captivating destination.
Top Cultural Sites For Cultural Tours Of Jordan
Jordan is a Middle Eastern country known for its rich cultural heritage and history. With numerous ancient ruins and landmarks, it is a must-visit destination for cultural enthusiasts. Here are the top cultural sites to visit in Jordan:
Petra
Petra is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Jordan and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient city was carved into sandstone cliffs by the Nabataeans over 2,000 years ago. It features impressive buildings, temples, tombs, and a 1.2-kilometer-long narrow gorge called the Siq.
Jerash
Jerash is one of the best-preserved Roman ruins in the world and a must-visit for history lovers. It features well-preserved theaters, temples, and public squares that provide a glimpse into the ancient Roman Empire.
Amman Citadel
The Amman Citadel is a historical site located in the heart of Jordan's capital city, Amman. It was once a Roman settlement and features ruins of a temple of Hercules, Byzantine churches, and the Umayyad Palace.
Umm Qais
Umm Qais is an ancient Greco-Roman city located in northern Jordan. It features well-preserved ruins of a theater, basilica, and several other buildings.
Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is a desert valley located in southern Jordan that is home to several Bedouin communities. It is a popular destination for cultural tours and features ancient petroglyphs and Bedouin camps.
Madaba
Madaba is a town in central Jordan known for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics. It features the famous Madaba Map, a mosaic map of the Holy Land dating back to the 6th century.
Ajloun Castle
Ajloun Castle is a 12th-century Islamic fortress located in northern Jordan. It was built by Saladin's general to protect against the Crusaders and provides a great view of the surrounding countryside.
Qasr Amra
Qasr Amra is an eighth-century palace located in eastern Jordan. It features well-preserved frescoes and mosaics that depict hunting scenes, music, and dancing.
Dana Biosphere Reserve
The Dana Biosphere Reserve is a nature reserve located in southern Jordan that is home to several Bedouin communities. It features several hiking trails that provide stunning views of the desert landscape and the opportunity to experience Bedouin culture.
Aqaba
Aqaba is a coastal city located in southern Jordan and a popular destination for diving and snorkeling. It is also home to several historical sites, including the Aqaba Fortress and the Mamluk Castle.
Local people & culture in Jordan
Overview Of Jordanian Cuisine
Jordanian cuisine is a melting pot of different cultures and influences, including Bedouin, Arab, and Mediterranean. The country's geographic location along ancient trade routes has also contributed to its unique culinary traditions. Here are some of the most popular dishes and ingredients you'll find in Jordanian cuisine:
- Mansaf- Considered the national dish of Jordan, mansaf is a Bedouin-inspired meal of lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce and served with rice and flatbread.
- Falafel- Made from chickpeas, herbs, and spices, falafel is a popular street food in Jordan and is often served with tahini sauce and fresh vegetables.
- Hummus- A staple in Middle Eastern cuisine, hummus is a creamy dip made from chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.
- Za'atar- A spice blend made from thyme, sumac, sesame seeds, and salt, za'atar is used to season everything from bread to meat.
- Labneh- Similar to Greek yogurt, labneh is a thick and tangy strained yogurt that is often served with olive oil and bread.
Cultural Traditions Around Food And Hospitality In Jordan
Jordanians are known for their hospitality and generosity, and these values are reflected in their food culture. Here are some cultural traditions around food and hospitality in Jordan:
- Family-style meals- It's common for Jordanian meals to be served family-style, with large platters of food shared among the group.
- Communal eating- Sharing food is an important part of Jordanian culture, and communal eating is often seen as a sign of friendship and trust.
- Inviting guests- Jordanians take pride in their hospitality and often invite guests over for a meal or coffee, even if they are strangers. It's considered impolite to decline such an invitation.
- Drinking tea- Tea is an important part of Jordanian hospitality, and it's customary to offer tea to guests upon arrival. The tea is often sweetened with sugar and flavored with mint.
Recommended Restaurants And Markets To Experience Jordanian Cuisine
If you're interested in experiencing Jordanian cuisine, here are some recommended restaurants and markets to visit:
- Hashem Restaurant- Located in downtown Amman, Hashem Restaurant is famous for its falafel and hummus. The restaurant has been serving customers for over 50 years and is a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Al Quds Restaurant- Specializing in mansaf and other traditional Jordanian dishes, Al Quds Restaurant is a must-visit for foodies. The restaurant is located in downtown Amman and has a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
- Souk Jara- Located in the heart of Amman's old town, Souk Jara is a weekly outdoor market that features a variety of local food vendors. It's a great place to try different Jordanian dishes and mingle with locals.
Cultural Experiences And Activities In Jordan
Jordan is a country steeped in rich history and culture, offering visitors a plethora of unique and unforgettable experiences.
From exploring ancient ruins to sampling traditional cuisine, Jordan has something for everyone. Here are some of the top cultural experiences and activities to consider when visiting Jordan:
Attending A Performance At The Roman Amphitheater In Amman
The Roman Amphitheater in Amman is an iconic landmark that dates back to the 2nd century AD. Today, it is still used for concerts and other cultural events.
Attending a performance at the amphitheater is a must-do experience for anyone visiting Amman. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy the stunning acoustics of the ancient venue.
Learning About Bedouin Culture And Traditions In Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is a breathtaking desert landscape in southern Jordan that is home to the Bedouin people, a nomadic tribe that has been living in the region for centuries.
Visitors to Wadi Rum can learn about Bedouin culture and traditions by visiting a Bedouin camp, participating in a traditional tea ceremony, or taking a guided tour of the area.
This is a great way to gain insight into the local way of life and experience the hospitality of the Bedouin people.
Participating In A Cooking Class Or Food Tour In Amman Or Other Cities
Jordanian cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern flavors, and there's no better way to experience it than by participating in a cooking class or food tour.
In Amman and other cities, you can learn how to make traditional dishes like mansaf (a lamb and rice dish), falafel, and hummus. You can also visit local markets to sample a variety of Jordanian snacks and street food.
Experiencing The Local Arts And Crafts Scene In Cities Like Madaba Or Kerak
Jordan has a thriving arts and crafts scene, with many local artists and artisans creating beautiful handmade products.
In cities like Madaba and Kerak, you can visit workshops and galleries to see the work of local painters, weavers, and potters. You can also shop for unique souvenirs like handwoven carpets, pottery, and jewelry.
People Also Ask
What Are The Must-see Cultural Attractions On A Tour Of Jordan?
Jordan is a country rich in history and culture, with many attractions to explore. Some must-see cultural sites on a tour of Jordan include Petra, Jerash, and the Dead Sea.
What Should I Wear On A Cultural Tour Of Jordan?
When visiting cultural sites in Jordan, it's important to dress modestly out of respect for local customs. This typically means covering your arms, legs, and shoulders. Comfortable shoes are also recommended for walking on uneven terrain.
How Long Should I Plan For A Cultural Tour Of Jordan?
The length of your cultural tour of Jordan will depend on your interests and the sites you want to visit. However, most tours range from 5-10 days to allow for a comprehensive exploration of the country's cultural treasures.
What Are Some Traditional Jordanian Foods To Try On A Cultural Tour?
Jordanian cuisine is known for its use of herbs and spices, as well as dishes like mansaf (a rice and meat dish) and falafel. Other popular dishes to try on a cultural tour of Jordan include hummus, baba ghanoush, and shakshuka.
What Cultural Experiences Can I Have On A Tour Of Jordan?
In addition to visiting historical sites like Petra and Jerash, a cultural tour of Jordan can also include experiences like trying traditional Jordanian food, meeting local artisans, and learning about Bedouin culture.
You can also attend events like music and dance performances to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Final Thoughts
Cultural tours of Jordan can be an enriching and immersive experience, providing a glimpse into the country's history, traditions, and way of life.
Jordan's diverse cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking to explore and learn about a different way of life.
Whether you're interested in ancient ruins, traditional food, and music, or contemporary art and design, there's something for everyone on a cultural tour of Jordan.
Tyreece Bauer
Author
Tobey Strickland
Reviewer
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