Modern Capital, Ancient Foundations
Northern Jordan, Jordan
Amman is a new city, barely 60 years old, yet is built upon the foundations of the much older settlements of biblical Rabbath-Ammon and Philadelphia – once one of the Greco-Roman Decapolis cities. It sprawls over seven hills and is gateway to the treasures of the desert kingdom of Jordan, yet has attractions all of its own.
Background
Amman was first settled as far back as the Neolithic period, some 7,500 years ago, but it was as chief city of the Old Testament Ammonites and then later under the Ptolemaic king Ptolomy Philadelphus that it grew in importance. Today the Greco-Roman remains of the Citadel area are the surviving remnants of past glories.
Relaxing
As one would expect of a major capital city Amman has a variety of restaurants, bars and clubs to enjoy. Some are quite male orientated, though those venues in large hotels welcome women. Amman has some excellent patisseries and ice-cream parlours.