Madaba

Madaba is an ancient city in Jordan, known as the “City of Mosaics.” It is located about 30 kilometers southwest of the capital, Amman.

Here are some key things to know about Madaba:

Mosaics: The city is famous for its large collection of Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, many of which are remarkably well-preserved. The most renowned is the Madaba Mosaic Map, a 6th-century Byzantine mosaic map of the Holy Land. It is found on the floor of the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. The map is a significant historical and cartographic artifact, showing the area from Lebanon to the Nile Delta.

Historical and Religious Significance: Madaba has a long history, dating back to the Middle Bronze Age. It is mentioned in the Bible as a Moabite city. During the Roman and Byzantine periods, it became a prosperous provincial city and later the seat of a bishopric. Today, it is a city with a strong tradition of religious tolerance, with a mix of Muslim and Christian inhabitants.

Attractions: Beyond the famous mosaic map, Madaba offers several other points of interest:

Madaba Archaeological Park: This park preserves a number of mosaics and artifacts from different historical periods.

Church of the Virgin Mary: Located within the archaeological park, it features a rich mosaic floor.

Church of the Apostles: This Byzantine church, dating to 578 CE, is known for its detailed mosaic of the “Personification of the Sea.”

Mount Nebo: Located a short drive from Madaba, this biblical hill is believed to be the site where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. On a clear day, you can see the Jordan Valley, the Dead Sea, and even the towers of Jerusalem.

Culture and Economy: Madaba’s economy and culture are heavily influenced by its mosaics. The city has a thriving handicraft industry centered on mosaic art, with many workshops and the Madaba Institute for Mosaic Art and Restoration, which specializes in teaching mosaic conservation and production techniques.