Amman Citadel is one of the most historically significant sites in Jordan. Situated on a hill in the heart of modern-day Amman, it provides a window into the rich and layered history of the region. Archaeological evidence shows continuous human occupation at the site dating back to the Bronze Age, around 1800 BC. This post delves into the key historical periods and structures that define the Amman Citadel.
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A Historical Overview
The Amman Citadel, known locally as Jabal al-Qal’a, stands at an elevation of about 850 meters above sea level. It offers strategic views of the surrounding area, which explains its historical importance. The hill has been occupied by various civilizations, including the Ammonites, Romans, Byzantines, and Umayyads.
The Ammonite Period (1200-500 BC)
The earliest recorded civilization in Amman was the Ammonites, an ancient Semitic people who settled in the area around 1200 BC. They established their capital, Rabbath Ammon, on the site. The Ammonites are mentioned several times in the Old Testament, often in conflict with neighboring Israelite tribes. Archaeological remains from this period include city walls and a few inscriptions.
The Hellenistic and Roman Periods (333 BC – 324 AD)
After Alexander the Great’s conquest in 333 BC, the region came under Hellenistic influence. The city was renamed Philadelphia, in honor of Ptolemy II Philadelphus of Egypt. The Roman period began around 63 BC when the Roman general Pompey annexed the region. The city became part of the Decapolis, a group of ten cities on the eastern frontier of the Roman Empire.
During the Roman period, Philadelphia experienced significant urban development. The Citadel’s most famous structure, the Temple of Hercules, was built in the 2nd century AD. The temple’s remains include a giant hand, likely part of a massive statue of Hercules. Other Roman ruins at the Citadel include fortifications and water cisterns, reflecting the site’s strategic and practical importance.
The Byzantine Period (324-635 AD)
Christianity spread across the Roman Empire after Emperor Constantine converted in 312 AD. This marked the beginning of the Byzantine period in the region. During this era, Amman, still known as Philadelphia, saw the construction of several churches. The most notable Byzantine structure on the Citadel is a basilica, identifiable by its characteristic floor plan.
The Byzantine period also saw the re-fortification of the Citadel. New walls were built, often reusing stones from earlier structures. These fortifications highlight the ongoing strategic importance of the site.
The Umayyad Period (661-750 AD)
Following the Muslim conquest of the Levant in the 7th century AD, the region became part of the Umayyad Caliphate. The Citadel continued to serve as an important administrative center. The most significant Umayyad structure at the Citadel is the Umayyad Palace, or Qasr al-Kharana. This large, rectangular building served as the governor’s residence. The palace complex also includes a mosque, highlighting the religious transformation of the area under Islamic rule.
The palace is one of the best-preserved Umayyad buildings in Jordan. It is characterized by its distinctive domed entrance hall and intricate stone carvings. Earthquakes in the 8th century AD led to the site’s decline, but the remains offer crucial insights into early Islamic architecture.
Later Periods and Modern Rediscovery
After the decline of the Umayyad Caliphate, the Citadel’s importance waned. The area saw limited occupation during the Abbasid, Fatimid, and Ottoman periods. It wasn’t until the 19th century that Western explorers and archaeologists rediscovered the site.
Systematic excavations began in the 20th century and continue today. These efforts have uncovered much of what is known about the Citadel’s history. Modern Amman has grown around the Citadel, making it a prominent historical site in a bustling urban environment.
Conclusion
Amman Citadel is a living record of the region’s history, reflecting the many cultures and empires that have influenced Jordan over millennia. From its origins as an Ammonite stronghold to its development under Roman, Byzantine, and Umayyad rule, the Citadel offers a comprehensive overview of the area’s historical significance. Its ongoing excavation and preservation ensure that this rich history remains accessible to future generations.
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