Madaba - Jordan

Madaba is the capital city of Madaba Governorate of Jordan. It is best known for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, especially a large 6th century Byzantine-era mosaic map of The Holy Land. Madaba is located 30 kilometers south-west of the capital Amman.

The Madaba Mosaic Map is an index map of the region, dating from the sixth century AD, preserved in the floor of the Greek Orthodox Basilica of Saint George. With two million pieces of colored stone, the map depicts hills and valleys, villages and towns in Palestine and the Nile Delta. The mosaic contains the earliest extant representation of Byzantine Jerusalem, labeled the "Holy City." Other mosaic masterpieces found in the Church of the Virgin and the Apostles and the Archaeological Museum, depict a profusion of flowers and plants, birds and fish, animals and exotic beasts, as well as scenes from mythology and everyday pursuits of hunting, fishing and farming. Hundred of other mosaics from the 5th through the 7th centuries are scattered throughout Madaba.

Things to See & Do

* Church of the Map and the Madaba Map
* Madaba Archaeological Park
* Madaba Museum
* Iron Age Fortification Wall on West Acropolis
* Views from top of Mount Nebo

Cruise Season Jan - Dec
Currency Jordanian Dinar (JOD)
Language Arabic, English
Population approx
Land Area â39.44 km
Electricity 60,000 approx
Time GMT plus two hours
International Country Telephone Code + 962

Transport Links - Madaba is about a half hour from Amman. There are frequent minibuses each way. A taxi is a good option, especially if you're in a group. If you are coming into Madaba from Amman, make sure you get off the bus on the "Kings Highway" before getting to the bus terminal as it is now located east of the town and you'll need a taxi to get to the centre. The city is also only 25 Km from Queen Alia International airport, making it the ideal place to start and end your trip to Jordan.