Capitolias (Beit Ras) Jordan Feb 2020 скачать в хорошем качестве

Capitolias (Beit Ras) Jordan Feb 2020

I brought my friend Al to Beit Ras in northern Jordan to explore Capitolias, one of the ten cities of the Decapolis—a league of Hellenistic-era cities mentioned by Pliny the Elder. This ancient site, dating back to the 1st century BCE, sits near modern-day Irbid and was a thriving Greco-Roman settlement. As we wandered in, we were stunned by the well-preserved amphitheater carved into the hillside, its layered stonework revealing centuries of construction—from bedrock foundations to finely cut masonry. The engineering is incredible, with gravity-defying stone placements and remnants of grand doorways that once led into the central chamber. Though there are no handrails or stairs today, you can still imagine how spectators climbed to the upper tiers. The site is rich in archaeological details—Aramaic inscriptions, Greek carvings, and even Christian crosses etched into the stones. Nearby, scattered rocks reveal intricate floral motifs, hinge sockets for ancient doors, and column bases with precise circular fittings. One particularly striking find was a Christian cross beside a peg hole, suggesting later Byzantine influence. Capitolias was not just a performance space but a cultural hub, blending Nabatean, Roman, and early Christian elements. Despite its significance, it remains off the typical tourist trail, making it a hidden gem for history lovers. As we left, I spotted more carved basalt blocks in what seemed like a "junk pile"—proof that even the scattered debris here holds historical value. Al waited patiently while I marveled at the craftsmanship, a reminder of Jordan’s layered past. If you’re exploring northern Jordan, don’t miss Capitolias—where every stone tells a story. Capitolias flourished under Roman rule, with inscriptions in Greek and Aramaic. The amphitheater’s design reflects Roman urban planning, while later Christian symbols indicate its continued use into the Byzantine era. Located just 8 km northwest of Irbid, it’s an easy detour for history buffs. Like, Share & Subscribe for the latest videos My book HANDY CRUISE COMPANION, Cruise with Confidence is available on Amazon http://bit.ly/HandyCruiseCompanioneBook Check out my website http://www.julescruisecompanion.com.au/ Follow me on Facebook   / julie.burgess.5011   Follow me on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/julescruise... Copyright JCC