JERASH the lost city of Jordan скачать в хорошем качестве

JERASH the lost city of Jordan

Jerash, a city in northern Jordan, is famous for its remarkable ancient Roman ruins, making it one of the best-preserved provincial Roman towns in the world. Known historically as Gerasa, Jerash has a rich history spanning several millennia, with evidence of habitation dating back to the Neolithic period. The city reached its peak during the Roman period, becoming a vital part of the Decapolis—a group of ten cities on the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire. Key Attractions in Jerash: 1. The Arch of Hadrian: Built to honor the Roman Emperor Hadrian’s visit in 129 AD, this monumental arch stands as a grand entrance to the city, offering a taste of the architectural sophistication of the time. 2. The Oval Plaza (Forum): One of Jerash’s most striking features, this large, oval-shaped plaza is bordered by a colonnade and was a central gathering place for public events. 3. The Temple of Artemis: Dedicated to the goddess Artemis, this temple is notable for its impressive Corinthian columns, many of which still stand today. 4. The Cardo Maximus: This colonnaded main street runs through the heart of Jerash and stretches over 800 meters. It’s paved with original stones, complete with visible grooves from ancient chariots. 5. North and South Theatres: The South Theatre, the larger of the two, could seat thousands of spectators and still hosts events today, including the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts. The North Theatre is smaller and was likely used for city council meetings. 6. The Hippodrome: Once used for chariot races and other spectacles, the Hippodrome is still active today with reenactments of Roman military battles and chariot races for tourists. Historical Significance Jerash thrived under Roman rule but began to decline after the 7th century due to changes in trade routes and the effects of several earthquakes. Rediscovered by Western explorers in the 19th century, the city’s ruins were gradually excavated, unveiling its grand layout and remarkably intact structures. Modern Jerash Today, Jerash combines both ancient and modern influences, with the old city merging into the newer parts of town. It has a growing population and serves as a cultural and economic hub for northern Jordan, welcoming tourists from around the world who come to experience its history firsthand.