Oval Plaza of Jerash Jordan

Historical Overview

The Oval Plaza was constructed during the reign of Emperor Hadrian, who visited the city in 129 AD. It was designed to connect the Temple of Zeus, one of the city's most significant religious sites, to the Cardo Maximus, the city's main north-south avenue. This clever design reflects the strategic planning and architectural prowess of the ancient Romans.
 

Architectural Marvel

The Oval Plaza stands as a masterpiece of ancient Roman architecture. Covering an area of 90 meters by 80 meters, the plaza is surrounded by a broad sidewalk and a colonnade of Ionic columns dating back to the 1st century AD. The Ionic columns, adorned with intricate carvings, add a touch of grandeur to the plaza, making it a marvel to behold.
 

Unique Features

A notable feature of the Oval Plaza is the inclusion of two altars in its center. The altars added to the religious significance of the plaza, a reflection of the spiritual beliefs of the people of the time. In the 7th century AD, a fountain was incorporated into the plaza's design, further enhancing its aesthetic appeal.

In recent times, the plaza has been adapted to support a central column, erected to carry the Jerash Festival Flame, an integral part of the annual Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts. This modification adds a contemporary touch to the historical site, bridging the gap between the past and the present.
 

Surrounding Attractions

Beyond the Oval Plaza, Jerash Jordan is home to a myriad of fascinating sites. These include the North and South Theatres, the Cardo Colonnaded Street, the Cathedral Atrium, and the Nymphaeum Temple. Each of these locations holds its own unique charm and historical significance, making Jerash a treasure trove of ancient history and architecture.
 

Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts

One of the significant events held at the Oval Plaza is the Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts. This annual event transforms the ancient city into one of the world's most vibrant and spectacular cultural hubs. The festival flame, carried on the central column of the Oval Plaza, symbolizes the spirit of the festival and the cultural heritage of Jerash Jordan.

A Window to the Past

A visit to the Oval Plaza is akin to traveling back in time. The well-preserved structures, the colonnade of Ionic columns, and the broad sidewalk provide a glimpse into the grandeur of ancient Roman architecture. As you walk around the plaza, you can almost hear the echoes of the past, the bustling activities that once filled the plaza, and the conversations of the people who walked the same path centuries ago.
 

The Oval Plaza of Jerash Jordan stands as a testament to the architectural prowess and cultural richness of ancient Roman civilization. It is more than just a historical site; it is a living museum that tells the story of a bygone era. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture lover, or just a curious traveler, visiting the Oval Plaza will leave you in awe of the grandeur and majesty of ancient Roman architecture.