In ancient times, Jerash grew rich from iron ore as well as agricultural products, allowing for the construction of a unique oval forum, a hippodrome, an amphitheater, and a temple dedicated to Artemis, plus an arch built to mark a visit from Emperor Hadrian. The site is often visited either as a day trip from Amman (in conjunction with Umm Qais and Ajloun Castle) or as part of a larger tour of Jordan.
Jerash is a must-visit for those interested in architecture and history.
Wear sun protection and drink plenty of water.
Comfortable footwear is a must for exploring the site.
Jerash is located north of Amman, about an hour's drive from the city center via Route 35. Bus service in the area isn't the best, so travelers wanting to visit usually end up renting a car or taxi or going as part of an organized or private tour.
Jerash is open from 8am to 4pm in the winter, 8am to 8pm in the summer, and 9:30am to 5:30pm during Ramadan. Opening hours on Friday and public holidays are from 9am to 4pm. A Roman reenactment show, called Roman Army and Chariot Experience (RACE), is staged on Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday at 11am and 2pm and on Friday at 10am.
One of the highlights of a visit to Jerash is the chance to see the Roman Army and Chariot Experience, a Roman reenactment performance divided into three parts. The first features 24 actors demonstrating battle formations. This is followed by gladiator fights, and the show ends with a series of 2-horse chariot races.