Jordan is an Arab country in the Middle East, with a long and rich history stretching back to ancient times. It is known for its bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and more. The many fun facts about Jordan unveil what the country is famous for.
Jordan also has an abundance of natural wonders like Wadi Rum desert, Aqaba Red Sea beaches, and Mount Nebo which offers stunning views over the Promised Land. If this magical country is on your bucket list, you are in the right place to find out what Jordan is famous for.
Here are some interesting Jordan facts to know that will start your adventure.
Historical Facts About Jordan
What we now call Jordan has been inhabited since the Paleolithic times. Therefore, you can imagine the country has a deep history. Here are some interesting information on Jordan and its past.
The Capital of Jordan Has A Long History
The capital is known as Amman, and there is evidence that the country has been settled by humans since 3200 BC. You will be able to trace back the steps when you visit all the old ruins and historic sites in Jordan. Archaeologists have uncovered a lot of evidence that will give you a look back into its past.
Find A Piece Of Ancient Rome In Jerash
Roman architecture is magnificent, and you will find majestic pieces of it here in Jerash. That is because it was an important city for the Roman Empire. You can still see some of the impressive remains that are relatively well preserved.
When you visit Jerash, you will feel as if you are inside ancient Rome.
There Was A Lot Of Damage Back In 363 AD
Earthquakes are a common occurrence, and unfortunately, most of them can result in the loss of lives. In 363 AD, Jordan experienced an earthquake like no other that took many lives. The magnitude of the effect of this damage can be seen when you visit the ancient city of Petra.
That said, there are still many well-standing and imposing structures inside Petra; it remains one of the most famous landmarks in Jordan.
Visit Al-Maghtas To Learn An Important Fact About Jesus
One fact about Jordan that Christians will love is that this is where Jesus was baptized. If you want to see the exact historic site, then you will have to plan a short trip to Al-Maghtas. It is also known as the “Bethany Beyond the Jordan.” John the Baptist baptized Jesus in this location, and this is where he also got his name.
Cultural Facts About Jordan
Whenever you are traveling to a country, you need to respect its culture and people. It will allow you to connect with the locals and make friends in the most unexpected of places. You will only impart this respect when you understand Jordanian culture.
So, here are some cultural facts about Jordan the country.
Don’t Leave Jordan Without Trying Mansaf
The traditional food in Jordan is an absolute delight and you have to explore the local cuisine when you are there. Specifically, don’t forget to try the national dish Mansaf.
The dish comes from 1200 AD, during the Mamluk Period, and it is an important Bedouin dish. A combination of lamb, yogurt, rice, and pine nuts will enchant you with a unique burst of flavor.
After which, sink your teeth into some of those sweet desserts in Jordan that are just heavenly.
Accepting Meal Invitations
Jordanians are known for their hospitable nature, so it is not uncommon to get meal invitations, particularly as a visitor. It is important to be courteous when someone wants to offer you a meal.
Usually, it is good to accept as repeated refusal can be offensive to the host. It is said that you can refuse a meal invitation only three times before you accept it. That said, if you really cannot make it, always decline politely with a smile while expressing gratitude.
Female Police Officers Are A Common Sight In Jordan
It is normally considered that rules in Arab countries are slightly strict towards women. Jordan took a progressive step back in the 70s when it allowed females to become police officers. Even now, you will see many such officers, and the number only keeps on increasing.
Drinking Or Eating With The Left Hand Is Not Good Etiquette
Following eating etiquette is important if you want people to engage with you and respect you. Avoid drinking or eating with your left hand where possible. In Jordanian culture, the left hand is considered unclean, which is why it is best to use your right hand.
Similarly, you want to use both hands or your right hand to receive or give things to people.
Overpraising A Child Is Uncommon
You might praise your child all the time to boost their confidence, but you will not find this in Jordan. The adults think that if you provide a lot of positive reinforcement to the child, it will incur bad luck. That is why adults will mostly avoid overpraising their children.
Interesting Facts About Jordan For Kids
Kids will benefit from learning about this Middle-Eastern country to boost their knowledge of different cultures and geographies. Here are some simple but interesting facts about Jordan to impart to the children.
It Is Part Of The Fertile Crescent
The Fertile Crescent is that part of the world where it is said that agriculture was the first thing to show up. This was back in the Neolithic Period, and Jordan is also part of this crescent. After all, it is one of the oldest countries you will find.
Jordan Doesn’t Have Oil Reserves
Arab countries are known for being rich in oil, but the same is not the case with Jordan. It only has a small amount of oil, which is not particularly significant. However, Jordan is rich in natural gas, but that is not as important as oil in the global world.
The Country Is Small
Jordan is not a huge country; it spans 34,000 square miles but has plenty to offer. You can easily visit some important sites in the country during your travel time. Besides that, people also say that you can walk across the entire country in just over a month.
Jordan Is A Monarchy
The Jordan Royal family is one of the most powerful royal families in the Middle East. The country is officially known as the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. It was also once a colony of the British Empire. The country got its independence from the British in 1946.
King Abdullah II Is The Monarch Currently
King Abdullah II is the monarch right now, and the royal family has been in power for more than a hundred years. However, this was not always the case with the country.
Useful Jordan Facts For Travelers
While you are traveling in Jordan, you will never get bored because there is so much to do in the country. Here are some Jordan fun facts for anyone planning a trip!
Archaeological Sites Are Rampant In Jordan
Jordan may not be rich in oil, but it is rich in historic archaeological sites. In fact, it is estimated that there are close to 100,000 sites in the country.
Yes, Jordan is filled with historical sites, and people joke that you will find one on every corner. You might not be able to see them all but don’t forget to visit the most important ones.
You Can Enjoy A Relaxing Day In The Dead Sea
Forget a fancy spa in Jordan when you have the Dead Sea to fulfill all the same benefits. It is said that the salty water will relax your muscles, and exfoliate your skin.
You will feel a sense of calmness as you float weightlessly in this natural spa. In addition, you can also bathe in the mud of the sea to exfoliate your skin even more.
People Go To Mount Nebo For Pilgrimages
One of the reasons why Mount Nebo is famous is because it is thought to be the place where Moses witnessed the Promised Land. Many people come to this mountain for a pilgrimage.
On the other hand, you can also hike the mountain and enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the region.
You Will Not Find A Lot Of Greenery In Jordan
Forests are a rare sight in Jordan, as the country is mostly desert and has an arid climate. Only 2% of Jordan is covered with forests, which is a negligible amount. However, in the green regions, you will find a lot of olive and oak trees.
Common Facts About Jordan
There are some fun facts about Jordan that most people may have heard of even if they have not visited the country.
It Used To Be Known As The Emirate Of Transjordan
Yes, Jordan was officially known as the Emirate of Transjordan for more than two decades. That was because Europe decided that it wanted to have a say in the affairs of this country as well. During that time, the British had an influence over this part of the Arab world.
The Country Got An Olympic Medal For Taekwondo
Taekwondo might not be the first thing you think of when you hear about Jordan, but it has been famous in the country since 2016. That is because Ahmad Abu Ghaush won an Olympic medal in taekwondo for the country. At the time, no one could think that this was the sport the country would excel in.
Theeb Is An Oscar Nominated Movie
Jordan does not have a big movie culture, but Theeb, one of its movies, did get nominated for the Oscar.
The story of the movie revolves around a Bedouin boy and how he survives in the harsh desert. The best part about this movie is that the producers decided to use non-professional people for acting to make sure that the movie looks as real as possible.
Amman Was Founded In 7250 BC
Rome is not the only ancient city in the world. The capital of Jordan, Amman, has been settled by humans for a long time. This reflects how old the country is, and you can find plenty to explore in the capital. Make sure you spend some time in Amman to understand the history of Jordan.
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Other Interesting Facts About Jordan
Now that you are familiar with most facts about Jordan, there are still some fascinating ones that you might not know. These will also help you see the country in a new light. So, here are some interesting Jordan facts you need to know.
The Jawa Dam Is Pretty Old
The Jawa Dam was built in the fourth millennium BC, and it is perhaps one of the oldest dams here. The purpose of this dam was to help with the supply of water.
Unfortunately, Jordan is still struggling with this problem. That is because the country is mostly desert, and there is a shortage of water that can’t be overcome with ease.
You Have To Visit Petra
A trip to Jordan is often considered incomplete if you don’t visit Petra. It is perhaps the most famous place in the country.
Petra is one of the seven wonders, and it was settled more than ten thousand years ago. You will also notice that many famous movies have been shot here. These include the Last Crusade, Indiana Jones, and many others.
It is a touristy spot but for very good reasons. If you want to experience a piece of important history, you have to check out Petra.
The Country Has A Strategic Location
Jordan is not the first country to come into the mind of most people, but the location of this place is highly strategic. It sits at the crossroad of important trade routes such as the Spice and Silk Routes.
People back in the day understood this importance, which is why many rulers, kings, and other powerful people wanted to take over it. Because of this, you will find that this country has an interesting past.
The Jordan Trail Is Something You Need To Witness
Finally, if you are someone that loves trekking, then consider embarking on the Jordan Trail while you are in the country. It stretches for more than four hundred miles, and it will take approximately 40 days to complete.
As you traverse this trail, you will pass by some of the most famous landmarks and sights that make up this beautiful country.
Discovering More Fun Facts About Jordan
These are just some of the interesting facts about Jordan to know so that you can make a fun-filled itinerary for yourself. Explore the country with ease and enjoy some of the best experiences.
Make a trip yourself to gain a better understanding of what the country is like and why it is so beloved by many. You will discover many more fascinating facts about the country of Jordan.
