At Far Horizons, we specialize in providing expert-led tours to some of the world’s most fascinating archaeological sites. Jordan is a country with a rich history and cultural heritage that dates back thousands of years, and it is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are among the most impressive in the world.
In this blog, we will focus on four of Jordan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites – Um er-Rasas, Qasr Amra, Petra, and Wadi Rum – and explore why these sites should have you planning to visit Jordan! We will also discuss the benefits of touring with expert historians and archaeologists, and provide travel recommendations.
Join us as we delve into the rich history and culture of Jordan and discover why it is a destination that should be on history lovers’ list of must-visit destinations.
And if you’d like to travel to Jordan in the company of our expert team, check out our Visit Jordan and Stunning Petra tour.
A Brief overview of Jordan and Its Historical Importance
Jordan is home to six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, each offering visitors a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of the country.
In this blog, we will focus on four of Jordan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites on our Visit Jordan and Stunning Petra tour: Um er-Rasas, Qasr Amra, Petra, and Wadi Rum.
Each of these sites has its own unique history and significance, and we believe they will all provide you with memories to last a lifetime.
Our expert-led tours provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of these sites and their importance, as well as an opportunity to explore their stunning natural surroundings.
Um er-Rasas (Kastron Mefa’a)
Um er-Rasas is an ancient city in central Jordan, about 30 kilometers southeast of Madaba. It is known for its well-preserved Byzantine-era buildings and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Guests who visit Um er-Rasas can expect to see impressive mosaics and other decorative features that date back to the 8th century. This site is particularly fascinating for those interested in Christian history, as it was an important Christian site from the 4th century.
Qasr Amra
Qasr Amra is an early Islamic castle in eastern Jordan, about 85 kilometers east of Amman. It was built in the early 8th century and is known for its impressive frescoes and reception-hall-cum-bathhouse.
The castle is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an important example of early Islamic art and architecture. Guests who visit Qasr Amra can expect to see stunning murals and intricate mosaics that provide a glimpse into the rich history and culture of the region.
Petra
Petra is perhaps the most famous of Jordan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and for good reason. Located in southern Jordan, Petra is an ancient city that was carved into red sandstone cliffs over 2,000 years ago.
It was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom and an important center of trade and commerce. Guests who visit Petra can expect to see impressive tombs, temples, and other buildings that were carved into the rock. The most famous of these is the Treasury, which is featured in many movies and TV shows.
Petra is unquestionably one of the world’s most breathtaking ancient sites.
Wadi Rum
Wadi Rum is a desert valley in southern Jordan, known for its stunning natural beauty and rock formations. Various cultures for thousands of years have inhabited it.
Guests who visit Wadi Rum can expect to see incredible landscapes, including towering rock formations and sweeping desert vistas. It is also a popular destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, rock climbing, and camel trekking.
Wadi Rum, though, is not only famous for its stunning desert landscapes but also for its archaeological treasures. The area is home to ancient inscriptions and petroglyphs that offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of the region’s past inhabitants. Exploring these archaeological wonders in the company of an expert guide is a truly unforgettable experience.
Far Horizons’ Expert-Led Tours
Expert-led tours are an essential aspect of our company’s offering. Our guides have extensive knowledge of Jordan’s history, culture, and heritage and can provide visitors with a deep understanding of the sites they are visiting. They can also answer any questions visitors may have and provide insights that may not be readily available in guidebooks or online resources.
By touring with one of our knowledgeable guides, you can also be confident that you’re in the company of someone familiar with the country and the historical sites you visit. Our tours help visitors navigate sites more efficiently, ensuring that you can see and experience all that you want to in the time that you have.
Jordanian Culture and Hospitality
Jordanian culture is rich and diverse, with influences from the Bedouin, Arab, and Islamic traditions. Visitors to the country can expect to see a variety of cultural expressions, including traditional dress, music, dance, and food.
Jordanian hospitality, meanwhile, is renowned around the world, with visitors often describing the warmth and generosity of the people as one of the highlights of their visit. Hospitality is a deeply ingrained cultural value in Jordan. Visitors can expect to be welcomed with open arms wherever they go, enhancing a visit to the country in many ways.
Guests are often invited into homes and offered traditional food and drink, providing an opportunity to experience the local culture firsthand. They may also be invited to participate in cultural activities such as music and dance performances, providing an opportunity to learn more about the country’s rich cultural traditions.
In conclusion, Jordan is a country with a rich history and culture and an abundance of UNESCO World Heritage Sites to explore. With our tours being led by an acclaimed archaeologist, visitors are provided with a unique and enriching experience, allowing them to learn more about the country’s heritage and culture than they would on any other tour.
We invite you to join us on one of our tours and discover all that this amazing country has to offer. If you have yet to decide which country to travel to next, please browse our Worldwide Selection of Archaeological Tours.
If you have any questions, please get in touch.
