Madaba

Introducing Madaba

Madaba is a small town located southeast of Mount Nebel, next to Jordan's only highway. It is said to be one of the earliest Christian cities in Jordan, with a history of more than 3,500 years. It is the city with the largest variety of mosaic products in the world and enjoys the reputation of "Mosaic City".

The most famous attraction here is the mosaics covering the entire church, and the most famous is the colorful mosaic map of the Middle East inside St. George's Church. The map originally filled the entire floor of the church. Due to years of war and earthquakes, the old church was completely destroyed, and later Christians rebuilt St. George's Church on the basis of the broken floor.

Although the maps are incomplete, most of them have a history of more than 1,400 years. They are ingeniously conceived, colorful, exquisitely crafted, and rich in content. They depict flowers, birds, insects, fish, beasts, mythological stories, hunting, farming and other daily life scenes. They are colorful and shocking.

Climate and best time to travel

Jordan has a subtropical Mediterranean climate. Most of the country is covered by desert, and rivers are scarce. However, the mild climate makes it suitable for tourism year-round, though you should be mindful of temperature fluctuations. October to May is the rainiest season, marking the peak tourist season, while June to September is relatively dry.

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

Recommended play time: 1 day

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Most Popular FAQs for Madaba

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

Madaba is a historic city in Jordan known for its ancient mosaics, especially the famous Madaba Map. It has a rich history dating back to the Byzantine era and is an important stop for Christian pilgrims traveling to holy sites in Jordan. The city has also served as a crossroads of cultures throughout history.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

Madaba is located in central Jordan, about 30 km south of Amman and 10 km north of the Dead Sea. It can be easily reached by taxi or private car from Amman or the Dead Sea. There are also buses available from Amman’s central bus station to Madaba.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

Most attractions in Madaba, like the St. George Church, are open from 8 AM to 6 PM. The best times to visit are during the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) when the weather is mild. Summer can be very hot, especially in July and August.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

The entrance to St. George’s Church is typically free, but a small donation is appreciated. The Madaba Archaeological Park has an entry fee of around 1-2 JOD. Tickets for local attractions can be bought on-site, and some tours may be available for booking online.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

For most local attractions in Madaba, booking tickets in advance is not necessary. However, for tours or guided visits, it is advisable to book at least 1-2 days in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A full visit to Madaba, including the Madaba Map, archaeological sites, and Mount Nebo, will take around 4-6 hours. A day trip from Amman or the Dead Sea is a great way to explore the city and its surroundings.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

• The Madaba Map at St. George’s Church.
• Mount Nebo, the site where Moses is believed to have seen the Promised Land.
• Madaba Archaeological Park, which includes ruins from the Byzantine and Umayyad periods.

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are available in English and Arabic at most of the main attractions in Madaba. You can book a tour on-site or through travel agencies. Some sites also offer audio guides in multiple languages, including English.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

• Mount Nebo offers breathtaking views of the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea, perfect for panoramic shots.
• The rooftop of St. George’s Church provides a great view of the surrounding city and the famous mosaic map.

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

• Start with the Madaba Archaeological Park to explore ancient ruins.
• Visit St. George’s Church to see the famous mosaic map.
• End with a visit to Mount Nebo for panoramic views.

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

Night visits are not common in Madaba, but special tours or evening events may be available during certain festivals or peak tourist seasons. Check with local tour operators for more information.

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Madaba is not usually crowded, except during peak tourist seasons (spring and fall). Weekdays tend to be less crowded than weekends, and early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to visit to avoid larger crowds.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Most attractions have basic facilities such as toilets and rest areas. There are small shops and food stalls near St. George’s Church and the Madaba Archaeological Park. For more dining options, visit the town center.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Madaba’s main attractions, including St. George’s Church and the Archaeological Park, are accessible to elderly and disabled visitors. However, Mount Nebo has some uneven terrain that may be challenging for those with mobility issues.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cash is commonly used in Madaba, though many shops and restaurants accept credit cards and mobile payments (WeChat Pay, Alipay, etc.). It’s always a good idea to carry some Jordanian Dinar (JOD) in cash for small purchases.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

There are a few local restaurants and cafes in the center of Madaba offering traditional Jordanian dishes. Some popular spots include the Haret Jdoudna and the Madaba Restaurant.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, many of the local restaurants in Madaba offer vegetarian and vegan options, as well as halal food, which is common throughout Jordan.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

There are several mid-range hotels in Madaba, including the Madaba Inn Hotel and the Mosaic City Hotel. For more luxury options, consider staying at the Dead Sea resorts, which are about 30 minutes away by car.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

• The Dead Sea is nearby, where you can float in the salty waters.
• Explore the ruins of the ancient city of Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage site (about 2-3 hours away by car).

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Madaba has several souvenir shops selling locally made crafts, including mosaics, pottery, and embroidered textiles. The famous Madaba mosaics are a popular souvenir to bring home.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

Public buses and taxis are available to take you to nearby locations, including the Dead Sea and Amman. Rental cars are also a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas. There are also tours available for day trips to nearby attractions like Petra.