Umm Qais

Umm Qais is a Roman ruin in Northern Jordan.

Understand
Umm Qais was once the Decapolis city of Gadara. Although not as extensive as Jerash, the ruins cover periods from Roman rule to the Ottomans and provide sweeping views over the Sea of Galilee and the Golan Heights, and a peaceful experience.

The city remained unrecognised for about 1000 years and only in the 19th century became alive again.

Get in
Umm Qais is about 25 km from Irbid and 110 km from Amman. Minibuses run from Irbid but it is much easier to get to by car, with ample parking. Umm Qais can be combined in a day trip with Jerash or Ajlun, but all 3 can be difficult, making it advisable to stay overnight somewhere in the north.

Get around
Walking is the only mean of transportation.

See


You might also want to take a look at the almost 2000-year-old houses that where still inhabited just a few years ago.

In addition, the convenient location offers great views of the surrounding area, including the Israeli side:

Do
Hiking around in the area and enjoying the beautiful views is pretty much the only thing to do here.

Buy
Flowers are sold in spring when everything is blooming by some of the local people. Buy some and support the local community.

Go next

 * Al-Himma – therapeutic hot springs located 10 km north. Once highly regarded by the Romans, two bathing facilities: a privately-run and a public one. Note, there are separate timetables for men and women.
 * Irbid – The main industrial and administrative centre in the north of the kingdom.
 * Pella – Ancient ruins.