Jordan

The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan was an unexpected surprise. I visited the country for five days in October 2000 and soon after arrival wished I had allocated at least a few more days. The country, though small, offers much to see.

The photos at the right show some scenes along the Kings Highway that runs south from the capital of Amman. The drive along the Kings Highway offers views of stunning landscapes and, for those so inclined, an opportunity to visit a number of religious sites along the way. One also gets an opportunity to glimpse the day-to-day life of the residents. Several of the high points are the ancient citadel of Karak, which served as a stronghold during the Crusades, Mt. Nebo, where Moses could gaze upon the "Promised Land" he was never permitted to enter, and Umm ar Rasas, where the remains of a sixth century Byzantine church have revealed intricate mosaic floors.

Jordan also boasts two world-class archeological sites: the Greco-Roman city of Jerash and the ancient Nabataean city of Petra, which can be seen on separate pages. In addition, there are the magnificent desert landscapes of Wadi Rum.