10 fun and interesting Jordan facts

1. Mount Nebo: The Final Resting Place of the Biblical Prophet Moses

Mount Nebo, located in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, is widely believed to be the final resting place of the biblical prophet Moses. According to the Bible, Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land from the summit of Mount Nebo before his death. The mountain is now a popular pilgrimage site for Christians, Jews, and Muslims alike, and is home to a Byzantine-era church and a memorial to Moses.

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2. Petra, the ancient city of engineering

The ancient city of Petra, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, is a marvel of human engineering. Built over 2000 years ago, it was carved directly into the rock of the Jordanian desert. It remained unknown to the Western world until the 19th century, when it was discovered by a Swiss explorer. To enter the city, visitors must pass through a narrow gorge that is only 1.25 km wide. Petra is a testament to the ingenuity of the people who created it, and a must-see destination for anyone visiting Jordan.

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3. Jordan's Mukawir Palace is associated with John the Baptist

The ancient palace of Mukawir, located just south of Madaba in Jordan, is renowned for its association with John the Baptist. It is believed that the prophet was imprisoned here during the reign of King Herod Antipas. The palace is now a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a glimpse into the history of the region and the life of John the Baptist.

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4. Parents reserve compliments for children

In Jordan, it is believed that too much praise of children can bring bad luck, so parents tend to be more reserved in their compliments. This is a cultural norm that has been passed down through generations, and is still widely practiced today. It is seen as a way to protect children from the potential harm that could come from too much praise.

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5. A Land of Ancient History and Modern Adventure

Jordan has a long and fascinating history, stretching back to ancient times when it was part of the Fertile Crescent - a crescent-shaped region of fertile land in an otherwise arid part of the world. This region was known for its abundance of food and resources, and it was here that some of the earliest civilizations flourished. Jordan was an important part of this region, and its strategic location at the crossroads of the Middle East has made it an important trading hub for centuries.

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6. Home to the Dead Sea

Nestled in the Middle East, Jordan is home to the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth. At an astonishing 402 meters below mean sea level, the Dead Sea is a sight to behold. Its spiritual and breathtaking landscape is unlike any other, with its salty waters and mineral-rich mud, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

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7. How to politely refuse a meal three times

In Jordan, it is customary to politely refuse a meal three times before finally accepting it. This is a sign of respect and appreciation for the host's generosity. Refusing the meal three times is a way of expressing gratitude for the host's hospitality and kindness. It is also a way of showing that the guest is not taking advantage of the host's generosity.

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8. Baptism Site Discovered in Jordan

The Baptism Site by the Jordan River is one of the most significant discoveries in modern biblical archeology. Located in Wadi Kharar, this area is believed to be the place where John the Baptist resided and where Jesus Christ was baptized. This site has been the subject of numerous archaeological excavations, which have revealed a wealth of artifacts and evidence that support the notion that this is indeed the place where Jesus was baptized. The site has become a popular pilgrimage destination for Christians, and it is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

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9. Amman - The Unique City That Spans 19 Jabals

Amman, the capital of Jordan, is a city like no other. It was originally built across seven hills, known as "jabals", but now spans 19 of them. This makes it unique in that it has no "East side" or "West side" - directions are instead given based on the "jabals". This makes it a truly unique city, and one that is well worth exploring.

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10. Amman, The City of Stone and Concrete

The city of Amman, Jordan, is known for its unique architecture, with almost every building constructed from stone or concrete and clad with thin, white limestone slabs. This gives the city a uniform look, with no distinct landmarks, as all the buildings appear almost identical. The limestone slabs used to clad the buildings are typically thin, and the white color helps to reflect the sun's rays, keeping the buildings cool in the hot Jordanian climate.