Zarqa: Starry Skies and the Frescoes of Quseir Amra

Discover Zarqa through two very different themes: the starry skies and geological formations of the Dahek Nature Reserve, and the frescoes of Quseir Amra. Nature and figurative art each offer a distinctive perspective on a trip. Those interested in the night sky will find one of Jordan’s best places to observe the stars and moon in the nature reserve. Culture enthusiasts can explore the murals that adorn the reception hall and hammam at Quseir Amra.

Stars, the Moon, and Chalk Slopes

The Dahek Nature Reserve is considered one of Jordan’s best places to observe the stars and the moon. The reasons for this include low light pollution and clear night skies. Stargazing is therefore a distinctive natural feature of the area. At the same time, attention turns to the land: the reserve is a destination for visitors who want to see geological formations, including white chalk slopes.

These themes offer two different perspectives on the nature reserve. The night sky draws attention to the stars and the moon, while the chalk slopes make the geological formations a focus of observation. Both aspects appeal to travelers who want to spend their time in Zarqa exploring nature and the landscape.

The Frescoes of Quseir Amra

At Quseir Amra, the reception hall and hammam are richly decorated with figurative murals. The frescoes reflect the secular art of their time. They show influences from classical pagan themes and Byzantine portraiture. Hunting scenes, animals, and birds are among the subjects depicted; inscriptions in Greek and Arabic accompany the images.

The varied subjects give the frescoes a broad thematic range: alongside portraits and influences from different artistic traditions are hunting scenes and depictions of animals and birds. The inscriptions in two languages form another part of this visual program. For trip planning, this cultural focus differs markedly from the natural features of the Dahek Nature Reserve.

More Travel Ideas in Jordan

Jordan offers further perspectives on religious heritage and history. At the baptism site of “Bethany Beyond the Jordan” (Al-Maghtas), the site includes two archaeological areas: Tell el-Kharrar, also known as Jabal Mar Elias, and the area of the churches of Saint John the Baptist. Most Christian denominations consider the baptism site to be the place where Jesus of Nazareth was baptized by John the Baptist.

Generations of monks, hermits, pilgrims, and priests stayed at and visited the baptism site. Evidence of their religious activities dates from the 4th to the 15th century AD. Access is controlled through a single entrance; designated paths are used for visits on foot and for pilgrim processions. Check current official visitor guidance before your visit.

Umm Al-Jimāl is another distinctive historical destination in Jordan. The site’s basalt architecture reflects local Hawran building styles for residential and religious structures. The settlement developed from around the 5th century AD on the site of an older Roman settlement and remained inhabited until the end of the 8th century AD. Its architecture and settlement history offer a different way of exploring the past than the religious heritage of the baptism site.

Those interested in nature and trails in Jordan will find another example in the Nawatef Trail. The circular route runs from the Al-Barrah area to the Nawatef area and the lodge, and leads to mountains, springs, and ancient ruins. It operates year-round and is accessible only with a licensed guide. As operating details may change, check them before your trip.

Discover more destinations: Azraq Ed Duruz, Az-Zarqa, Kerak, Aqaba, Ajloun, Mafraq Governorate, Balqa Governorate, Irbid Governorate.

Return to the main travel overview: Jordan.