Top Things to See in Jerash: Temples, Oval Plaza & Ruins

Travel Destination
December 10, 2025

The site of Jerash is one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in Jordan with the ruins of a complex Roman city of temples, theaters, and their associated markets and streets. The city, which was formerly part of the Decapolis League, grew a lot during the time of the Roman Empire, and at its height, it was one of the largest cities in the region, being far more populated than Dubai’s northern most part. Among the most complete Roman city ruins outside Italy, Jerash is one of the very few places where tourists can have the experience of less than a century old living museum, because of the combination of ruins and modern-day city. Chariot races and christenings in the Hippodrome, stone streets and temple areas are all-memory-like attractions which are already mentioned in this guide.

Hadrian’s Arch

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The entrance of ancient Jerash, a pompous structure, erected as a tribute to the emperor Hadrian’s visit in 129 AD.This grand stone gate measures and sets the city’s architectural beauty.

The Hippodrome

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An arena where chariot races and gladiator contests took to its lively stage in the past.The sound of galloping horses and the yelling of spectators can be imagined while one treads the grounds.

The Oval Plaza

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The most famous sight in Jerash—an oval forum with a ring of columns absolutely perfectly aligned. A photographers’ paradise and the main point from which to reach the ancient sites.

Colonnaded Street (Cardo Maximus)

A straight road of the Romans graced by mighty columns and ancient stones for paving. Tread carefully as you may discover the impressions of chariot wheels still left in the stone.

Temple of Zeus

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A temple placed on the mountain top with the best view of the whole city. The height of the building and the intricacy of the design proclaimed Jerash’s past splendor.

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South Theater

An excellent example of a decay-free and almost intact amphitheater that used to accommodate thousands of patrons. Position yourself in the middle and discover the superb sound quality—every word you utter will be heard

Temple of Artemis

The temple to the goddess Artemis was the most important during its time in Jerash. The temple remains one of the best examples of the ancient world. The temple is one of the most visible remains along with the columns and steps.

The North Theater

The North Theater is a smaller Roman theater that was used for performances and city council gatherings. The beauty of this theater is not only in its size but also in the high quality of the building's and city's life.

Nymphaeum

Comparably, to a less graceful yet more functional aqueduct, the Nymphaeum was one such fountain in Jerash; a lavish one though since it had already been compared with ancient Roman fountains set up only in wealthy households and public parks. Besides, it was decorated with finely carved and skillfully executed water spouts.

North Gate & City Walls

End your visit by walking to the northern limit of Jerash. The city's walls that have been discovered serve as a reminder of the vastness and grandeur of this ancient metropolis.

Related Blogs about Jerash

Visit the Hippodrome of Jerash, an antiquity a Roman stadium that is already a thing of the past, the chariot races, and other public spectacles brought the city’s magnificent classicism to the fore.

The Temple of Artemis in Jerash is the most luxurious and eye-catching ancient Roman monument known till date in the Jerash city and was dedicated to the goddess who protected the city.

Visit the North Theater in Jerash, the Roman amphitheater where the amazing ancient architecture, the historical performances, and the lively culture of Gerasa were taking place.

Dive into Jerash, which is often referred to as The Pompeii of the Middle East, where breathtakingly preserved Roman plazas, temples, theatres, and colonnaded streets can be visited. This leading guide for one of the most magnificent archaeological sites in Jordan gives the history, top sites, and travel tips besides highlighting the site's Wonders.

Visit Jerash, the only Roman city in Jordan that is preserved in such an excellent manner. Go through the history by moving around the temples, the colonnaded streets, the theaters, the plazas, and the triumphal arches.