Hadrian's Gate, at the entrance:
Jerash is this wonderful large area of Roman north of the city of Amman, Jordan.
Archeologists (from France, I believe) are, steadfastly and with great care, putting the pieces back together. Before sharing a selection of photos, here's a little history as listed by the Jordan Tourism Board (http://www.visitjordan.com/default.aspx?tabid=65) ...
"A close second to Petra on the list of favourite destinations in Jordan is the ancient cith of Jerash, which boats and unbroken chain of human occupation dating back more than 6,500 years.
Jerash lies on a plain surrounded by hilly wooded areas and fertile basins. Conquered by General Pompey in 63 BC, it came under Roman rule and was one of the ten great Roman cities of the Decapolis League.
The city's golden age came under Roman rule, during which time it was known as Gerasa, and the site is now generally acknowledged to be one of the best-preserved Roman provincial towns in the world. Hidden for centuries in sand before being excavated and restored over the past 70 years, Jerash reveals a fine example of the grand, formal provincial Roman urbanism that is found throughout the Middle East, comprising paved and colonnaded streets, soaring hilltop temples, handsome theatres, spacious public squares and plazas, baths, fountains and city walls pierced by towers and gates."
Chariot ruts in the stone roads:
Ancient sewer cover.
Various photos of Jerash ...
The columns were built and set up to endure seismic activity. Imagine that. All those years ago. My battery was failing, so I didn't get video of this. The forks moves as the column moves, every so slightly and gently. You can place your finger in between as well, and feel the column move.
This marked the butcher's stall:
A few more photos ...
One thing I didn't expect was to hear bagpipes. I'll leave this post with a video of that.
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