Madaba, the "city of mosaics", is a small Christian town about 30 km south-west of Amman (40 to 45 minutes by road). It holds the oldest known map of the Holy Land, a 6th-century Byzantine mosaic in the Greek Orthodox Church of St George, as well as an archaeological park with other mosaics. Allow 2 to 3 hours on site; the town combines easily with Mount Nebo, 10 km away, in the same half-day.
Highlights
The mosaic map in St George's Church
A map of the Holy Land in the 6th century, with Jerusalem at the centre, made of a great number of small stone cubes; it is fragmentary but very detailed. The church is an active place of worship.
The Madaba Archaeological Park
Mosaics from the Church of the Virgin, the Hall of Hippolytus and the "Burnt Palace"; the ticket gives access to several sites grouped in the same district.
The Church of the Apostles
A 6th-century Byzantine church with a large mosaic floor, included in the archaeological park ticket.
The museum and the mosaic workshops
Restoration and mosaic-making workshops continue the town's tradition; you can buy small stone souvenirs.
Practical info
Tips
- Prices (non-Jordanians, Jordan Tourism Board table and traveller reviews, to be confirmed): archaeological park about 3 JD, St George's Church and its map about 1 JD; only the archaeological park is included in the Jordan Pass according to most guides, the St George's map being paid separately. Dress modestly for the church. Madaba is often visited with Mount Nebo and the baptism site; see the Madaba, Mount Nebo and Dead Sea tour and the Bethany site. Madaba is also a good stop to sleep on the way south or to the Dead Sea. Back to Amman.
How to get there
From Amman, about 30 km, 40 to 45 minutes by car or taxi (by the Desert Highway or the King's Highway); buses and minibuses link Amman and Madaba, check according to the departure station. The simplest option: a day excursion or a taxi with driver combining Madaba, Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car for the day.
Opening hours
Nearby
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