Site of the famous miracle of the Gadarene swine, Gadara was renowned in its time as a cultural center. It was the home of several classic poets and philosophers, including Theodorus, founder of a rhetorical school in Rome; one poet called the city "a new Athens". Perched on a splendid hilltop overlooking the Jordan valley and the Sea of Galilee, Umm Qais boasts an impressive colonnaded terrace and the ruins of two theaters. You can take in the sights and then dine on the terrace of a fine restaurant with a breathtaking view of three countries.  

Desert Castles  

As if the wonders of nature are not enough. Jordan's deserts are dotted with ancient castles, farming estates, forts, hunting lodges and caravanserai. Widely varied in function, architectural style and creative embellishment most was the domain of Umayyad caliphs and princes in the first half of the 8th century.  

Qusayr' Amra is a UNESCO world heritage stir. Its interior walls and ceilings are covered with lively frescoes from Umayyad times. And surprise the visitor with figurative images of people and animals. The black fort at Azraq, in continuous use since Roman times, was the headquarters of Lawrence of Arab Revolt. Also well worth your while are Qasr Al- Hallabat, Hammam as-Sarh, Qasr Al-Kharrano and Qasr al-Mushatta. Plan to see them all in a one or two-day loop from Amman.  

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