Oval Plaza
Jarash
The Oval Plaza is one of the most remarkable features of the ancient city of Jerash in northern Jordan, a city famed for its extensive Greco-Roman ruins. This plaza, uniquely elliptical, is surrounded by a colonnade of Ionic columns and served as a central public space for social and commercial activities in Roman times. It exemplifies Roman architectural ingenuity and urban planning, providing a grand open area for gatherings and ceremonies. The plaza is connected to other significant structures in Jerash, including the Cardo Maximus, a main colonnaded street, and nearby temples and theaters. Its preservation allows visitors to experience the scale and elegance of Roman public spaces. The site is part of Jerash, often called the "Pompeii of the Middle East," reflecting its exceptional state of conservation and rich history spanning from Hellenistic through Byzantine periods. Today, the Oval Plaza remains a focal point for exploring the ancient city's cultural and architectural heritage.
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Tipp: Visit the Oval Plaza during the cooler morning or late afternoon hours to avoid the midday heat and to enjoy softer light for photography. Tickets to Jerash archaeological site, which includes the Oval Plaza, can be purchased in advance, especially during the Jerash Festival season to ensure entry. Wear comfortable walking shoes as the site covers extensive ruins with uneven surfaces. Check for any guided tours available to gain deeper insights into the plaza's history and architecture. Discounts may be available for students, seniors, and groups.
Interessante Fakten
- •The Oval Plaza is one of the few elliptical plazas from the Roman period still preserved today.
- •Jerash is often called the "Pompeii of the Middle East" due to its exceptional preservation, including the Oval Plaza.
- •The plaza is surrounded by a colonnade of Ionic columns, showcasing classical Roman architectural style.
- •Jerash was part of the Decapolis, a group of ten cities with Greek and Roman cultural influence.
- •The Oval Plaza was connected to the Cardo Maximus, the main colonnaded street of the city.
Geschichte
The Oval Plaza was constructed during the Roman period when Jerash, known as Gerasa, flourished as a city within the Decapolis league.
It was designed as a grand public space with an elliptical layout, surrounded by a colonnade of Ionic columns.
This architectural feature reflects Roman urban planning and cultural influences in the region.
Over the centuries, Jerash experienced several earthquakes, including the devastating 749 Galilee earthquake, which caused damage to many structures.
Despite this, the plaza's remains have been remarkably preserved.
The site was abandoned after the Crusader destruction in the 12th century and later rediscovered and excavated in the 20th century, revealing its historical significance.
OrtsfĂĽhrer
Oval Plaza Colonnade2nd century AD
A ring of well-preserved Ionic columns encircling the plaza, exemplifying Roman architectural elegance and providing a grand boundary to the public space.
Cardo MaximusRoman period
The main north-south colonnaded street connected to the Oval Plaza, lined with shops and public buildings, illustrating the city's commercial heart.
Nearby Temples and Theaters1st-2nd century AD
Several important religious and entertainment structures are located near the Oval Plaza, including the Temple of Artemis and the South Theater, enriching the cultural experience of the site.