Jerash

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Roman, Green, Cultural

Tucked into the fertile hills just north of Amman, Jerash is a place where the past feels astonishingly alive. Known as one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world, Jerash is famous for its colonnaded streets, temples, plazas, and amphitheatres — many of which remain in use today for cultural events, concerts, and festivals. But beyond its ruins, Jerash also offers planners a refreshing combination of green countryside, historic gravitas, and local cultural vibrancy that makes it ideal for meaningful, medium-sized events.

The heart of Jerash’s event offering lies in the Jerash Archaeological Site, home to the Oval Plaza, Hadrian’s Arch, and the remarkable South Theatre, which can seat thousands and still hosts performances during the annual Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts. While large-scale private events in the ruins require high-level permits, there are smaller opportunities to collaborate with cultural institutions for specially programmed concerts, theatrical productions, or site-specific storytelling experiences.

For those wanting to incorporate ancient atmosphere into more modern event formats, the Jerash Rest House — located just beside the ruins — offers indoor and outdoor space ideal for receptions, press launches, or catered dinners with a view of the colonnades. The surrounding town also features boutique hotels and family-run lodges, including places like Olive Branch Hotel, which provide a cosy rural base for faith groups, cultural tour groups, or creative residencies.

Jerash is particularly well-suited for heritage and ancient-themed events, community and culture gatherings, and creative and performing arts festivals. The combination of Roman grandeur and Jordanian village life gives organisers access to a unique duality: awe-inspiring grandeur on one hand, and warm, grassroots hospitality on the other. Events here often spill into the neighbouring hills, where olive farms, local markets, and artisan workshops add depth and authenticity to multi-day experiences.

Access to Jerash is simple — it’s only about 45 minutes north of Amman by road, making it a practical day-trip option or overnight destination for events with a cultural focus. Road infrastructure is solid, and the town is well connected to Ajloun and Irbid, making regional programmes easy to design. While venue infrastructure isn’t extensive, it is sufficient for small to mid-scale events, and the local community is enthusiastic about hosting.

Event planners who choose Jerash will find a destination that supports intentional storytelling, particularly for audiences interested in history, archaeology, or cross-cultural exchange. The town’s residents often participate in hosting visitors — from traditional music groups to culinary collectives — offering experiences that are deeply rooted and warmly personal.

Ultimately, Jerash is a place where time folds in on itself. A dinner lit by Roman torchlight. A violinist echoing through a 2,000-year-old theatre. A panel discussion on culture set against stone that has witnessed millennia. Events here are always anchored by a sense of continuity — and by the green hills that seem to embrace the past and the present in equal measure.