MADABA
Known in the Old Testament as Medeba, Madab and its
hinterlands are located in central Jordan. These lands were featured in
narratives related to Moses and the Exodus, David’s war against the Moabites,
Isaiah’s oracle against Moab and King Mesha of Moab’s rebellion against Israel.
Some of the finest art of the early Christian centuries can
still be seen in Madaba and its surrounding regions between the 4th
and 7th centuries AD, the prosperous ecclesiastical centre of Madaba
produced one of the world’s richest collections of Byzantine mosaics, many of
which are well preserved. Several church floor mosaics can still be seen in
their original locations, while others are displayed in the Madaba
Archaeological Park. The park houses Jordan’s oldest mosaic – a 1st
century BC floor from the Herodian palace –fortress at Machaerus.
But Madaba’s real masterpiece, located in the Orthodox
Church of Saint George, is the 6th century AD mosaic map of
Jerusalem and the Holy Land- the earliest religious map of the Holy Land in any
form to survive from antiquity. Accordingly, Madaba s dubbed “The city of
Mosaics”.
In keeping with Jordan’s commitment to restore and preserve
its mosaic masterpiece ,Madaba’s extensive Archaeological Park and Museum
complex encompasses the remains of several Byzantine churches ,including the
outstanding mosaics of the Church of the Virgin and the Hyppolytus Hall , part
of a 6th century mansion.
Directions:
Take the airport highway south from Amman. After about 20
km, turn westward following the signs. Madaba is 45 minutes away from Amman.
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