A Journey Through Time: The Ancient City of Um Qais

As I embarked on the Roman Heritage Tour, I was filled with anticipation, knowing that I was about to step into a world where history and spirituality intertwine. Our journey began with a drive north to the ancient city of Um Qais, also known as Gadara. This city, perched on a ridge, offers breathtaking views over the Sea of Galilee, the Golan Heights, and the Jordan Valley. The dramatic black-basalt ruins of this Roman city are a testament to the grandeur of the past.

Walking through the remnants of Um Qais, I was struck by the seamless blend of Roman and Ottoman influences. The well-preserved Roman remains stand alongside the remnants of a late 19th-century Ottoman village, creating a tapestry of history that speaks to the resilience and continuity of human civilization. As I wandered through the ancient streets, I felt a deep connection to the past, as if the stones themselves were whispering stories of those who had walked these paths before me.

The panoramic vistas from Um Qais are nothing short of awe-inspiring. Standing there, overlooking the vast expanse of the Jordan Valley, I was reminded of the interconnectedness of our world and the shared history that binds us all. It was a moment of reflection, a reminder of the spiritual journey that travel can be, as we seek to understand the world and our place within it.

The Majestic Ajloun Castle: A Fortress of Faith

Our next stop was the Ajloun Castle, a fortress built by the armies of Salah ad-Din in the 12th century. This castle, a prime example of Islamic military architecture, stands as a symbol of strength and faith. As we approached the castle, I was struck by its commanding position on Jebel Auf, offering sweeping views over the surrounding countryside.

Exploring the maze of interlinking rooms and tunnels within the castle, I was transported back to a time when this fortress played a crucial role in defending the region against the Crusaders. The castle’s history is a testament to the enduring spirit of those who built and rebuilt it, despite the challenges of war and natural disasters.

Standing atop the castle, gazing out at the landscape, I felt a profound sense of peace and connection to the past. The castle is not just a relic of history; it is a living testament to the resilience of faith and the power of human ingenuity. It was a reminder that our spiritual journeys are often intertwined with the physical spaces we inhabit, and that these spaces can inspire and uplift us in our quest for understanding.

Jerash: A Testament to Roman Grandeur

The final leg of our journey took us to Jerash, one of the best-preserved Roman provincial cities in the world. As we entered the city, I was immediately struck by the grandeur of its colonnaded streets and the impressive theatre that stands at its heart. The cobbled streets, worn by the tracks of Roman cartwheels, tell a story of a vibrant city that was once a hub of commerce and culture.

Walking through Jerash, I was captivated by the Temple of Artemis, with its exquisitely carved Corinthian capitals. The temple stands as a testament to the artistic and architectural achievements of the Roman Empire, a reminder of the beauty and complexity of human creativity.

As I wandered through the ancient city, I felt a deep sense of reverence for the people who had built and inhabited this place. Jerash is not just a collection of ruins; it is a living history, a reminder of the enduring legacy of the past and the ways in which it continues to shape our present and future. It was a fitting end to a journey that had taken me through time and space, deepening my understanding of the world and my place within it.