Amman the capital of Jordan has its share of ancient Roman ruins. The Roman Theatre, part of a complex of ancient Roman buildings in downtown Amman, a prominent leftover from what was the Roman town of Philadelphia is one of the biggest attractions here. Completed during the 2nd century CE, it is built into a steep hillside and its thirty three tiers once seated a crowd of about 6,000 people. The builders thoughtfully oriented it northwards to keep the harsh desert sun out of the eyes of the spectators.
Clearly demarcated into three horizontal sections with their own entrances, the front portion offering the best views of the stage were allocated to the rulers. While the military were assigned the middle, the public had to be satisfied with the seats right at the top. Since the theatre was designed to provide a clear line of vision for all spectators bringing them as close as possible to the action on stage, coupled with clear acoustics those perched on the topmost tiers may not have suffered much although the performers on stage may have appeared rather small. Stand in the middle of the theatre, speak normally and hear the echo bouncing around reaching even the top tiers quite clearly. Anyone daring to climb the steep and well worn steps to the top will discover unobstructed views of the whole theatre and even the surrounding area.
A small niche for a shrine behind the top tier was once occupied by a statue of Athena now in the Amman museum. Restored almost to its former glory the theatre is once again a busy place with theatrical programs being offered mostly in July and August. Two museums dedicated to Jordanian folklore and popular traditions are in the rooms behind the side entrances that lead to the orchestra and the stage. The floodlit theatre provides a beautiful sight at night amongst the modern buildings in Amman.
The Millennium Hotel Amman is the newest entrant to the city’s luxury hospitality scene. Well located this Amman hotel offers easy access to the city’s business, shopping and entertainment areas and attractions. A selection of spacious guest rooms and suites appointed with all the latest amenities with comfort and convenience in mind and elegant restaurants offering Asian and Arabic fusion cuisine would contribute to making a stay at this hotel in Amman Jordan a truly wonderful experience.
Chandrishan Williams is a travel writer who writes under the pen name, Caleb Falcon. He specializes in writing content based on the many exciting world adventures that await intrepid travellers.
