Roman Theatre, Amman (must see)

The Roman Theatre of Amman, a magnificent structure dating back to the 2nd century, stands as a prominent historical gem in the Jordanian capital. This iconic landmark is a testament to the city's rich Roman heritage, back when it was known as Philadelphia.

Positioned strategically in the eastern part of Amman, the Roman Theatre rests at the base of Jabal Al-Joufah, nestled on a hill opposite the Amman Citadel. An inscription in Greek on one of its pillars proudly declares that the theatre was erected in honor of Emperor Antoninus Pius (138–161 CE).

The theatre's impressive design features a large and steeply raked seating arrangement that could accommodate approximately 6,000 spectators. Ingeniously carved into the hillside, it was oriented to the north to shield the audience from the sun's glare.

Structured into three distinct horizontal sections known as diazomata, the theatre featured side entrances, or paradoi, at ground level. One led to the orchestra, while the other provided access to the stage area. Today, these entrances house the Jordan Museum of Popular Tradition on one side and the Jordan Folklore Museum on the other.

Notably, the highest section of seats in the theatre, often referred to as "the gods" in British English, offers excellent sightlines despite its distance from the stage. The steepness of the seating arrangement ensures that the actors' performances can be heard with remarkable clarity.

Today, the Roman Theatre serves as a vibrant venue for cultural events, reflecting its enduring role in the life of Amman. It has hosted diverse activities, including the Amman International Book Fair, the Amman Marathon prize ceremony, and musical concerts, such as the renowned Al-Balad Music Festival. In August 2019, the American rapper Russ held a concert at this historic venue, breathing new life into its ancient stones with the beats of modern music.