2026 Madaba Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in January)

St. George’s Greek Orthodox Church in Madaba, Jordan is home to the famous Madaba Map Mosaic, which is considered the oldest surviving original cartographic depiction of the Holy Land and especially Jerusalem. The mosaic is part of the church’s floor and dates back to the early Byzantine period. The Madaba Map Mosaic is a masterpiece of art and cartography, and it depicts an area from Lebanon in the north to the Nile Delta in the south, and from the Mediterranean Sea in the west to the Eastern Desert. The mosaic measures 16 by 5 meters and contains more than two million tesserae. The mosaic was rediscovered in 1884 during the construction of a new Greek Orthodox church on the site of its ancient predecessor. Today, the Madaba Map Mosaic is one of the most important tourist attractions in Jordan, and it attracts visitors from all over the world. #tripblazers

Located in the center of Madaba, Jordan, the Archaeological Park is a treasure trove of ancient history and art. This open-air museum houses a collection of ruins and fine mosaics from the Madaba area. One of the park’s highlights is the Hippolytus Hall, an elaborate floor design of a private villa from the 6th century. This unique mosaic depicts the ancient myth of Hippolytus, known in Byzantine times through the tragedy of the Greek dramatist Euripides. The hall was discovered in 1905 and underwent restoration in the 1960s. The park also showcases the remains of ancient Roman and Byzantine buildings, including a basilica. Excavations have revealed a fragment of a paved Roman road, the main axis of the city, running from east to west. #tripblazers

Mount Nebo is located in Israel. This mountain is famous for this is the last place known for Moses. Before his death, God called him to this mountain and show him the promised land. Over here, you can see the same promised land as Moses did. The view is spectacular. Amazing experience. #wintergetaway #wintergetaway

Mt. Nebo is where Moses is supposed to be buried. This isn’t the largest site I’ve ever visited but I’d suggest that anyone curious about history add Mt. Nebo to their itineraries. The mosaic tiles are in excellent condition and definitely worth seeing. Pope John Paul II visited here and planted an olive tree. #historicallandmarks #happynewyear #happynewyear

Bethany Beyond the Jordan in Jordan is recognized as the baptism site of Jesus. It was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List in 2015 and is a pilgrimage destination cherished by Christians worldwide. Figures 1-8 show the Church of St. John the Baptist at Bethany Beyond the Jordan, an important part of the baptism site of Jesus. This is the residence of John the Baptist recorded in the Bible and has long been a holy place in the hearts of Christians. Figure 9, the Jordan River Figures 10-16, the signage of Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Jesus' baptism site), is one of the iconic facilities for pilgrims to check in. It features English, Arabic, and Greek languages, quoting the scripture from the Gospel of John about Jesus' baptism in the Jordan River. The top is inlaid with the "Lamb of God" pattern (a Christian symbol) paired with a white dove (representing the Holy Spirit). The Jordan River section at Bethany Beyond the Jordan (Jesus' baptism site); this section has shallow water and many pebbles, matching the natural environment characteristics of early baptism rituals. It is one of the iconic places where Christians experience "simulated baptism" during pilgrimage. The water here is regarded as "holy water," and a female believer was seen cupping her hands to drink several sips. P14, the baptismal pool ruins of the Church of St. John the Baptist at Bethany Beyond the Jordan, where early Christians held baptism ceremonies. John the Baptist— John’s parents were priests Zechariah and Elizabeth, and he was a cousin of Jesus. His birth was a miracle because his mother Elizabeth was originally infertile, but after an angel’s prophecy, she became pregnant and gave birth to John. After reaching adulthood, John preached repentance along the lower Jordan River and baptized people. He wore camel hair clothing and ate locusts and wild honey, living a simple life. Around AD 26, he began public preaching, guiding people to improve interpersonal relationships and live righteous, holy lives. He also prophesied that God would send an important figure far greater than himself. John baptized Jesus in the Jordan River, an event that established his pioneering status in Christianity and marked the beginning of Jesus’ public ministry. Because John condemned King Herod’s unlawful marriage, he was arrested and imprisoned. Later, at the instigation of her mother, Herod’s stepdaughter Salome requested John’s head from King Herod, and John was ultimately beheaded as a martyr. Figures 18-20, a Greek Orthodox museum within the park.

#hellochristmas Celebrating Christmas in Madaba was one of the most heartwarming experiences of my travels in Jordan. This beautiful city, known as the “City of Mosaics,” becomes even more magical during the festive season. The streets light up with decorations, Christmas trees, and colorful displays that blend perfectly with the historic charm of the city. One of the highlights was visiting St. George’s Church, home to the famous mosaic map. During Christmas time, the area feels incredibly peaceful and full of meaning. The sound of carols, the glowing lights, and the warm atmosphere create a feeling of unity and joy. I also enjoyed walking through Madaba’s cozy shops and local cafés, where the holiday spirit can be felt everywhere. The Christmas market was another unforgettable stop—local handmade crafts, traditional foods, and friendly families coming together to celebrate. What makes Christmas in Madaba special is that it’s not about luxury; it’s about community, faith, and simple moments shared with kind people. Madaba’s blend of history, culture, and heartfelt celebrations makes it a perfect place to enjoy Christmas in a truly authentic and meaningful way. #Madaba #ChristmasInJordan #Jordan #TravelMoments #FestiveSeason #HolidaySpirit #tesaruonbudget

🏛️ Madaba – The City of Mosaics, Jordan 📍 Location Located just 30 km southwest of Amman, Madaba is a small but historically rich town, famous for its Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics. ⸻ ✨ Overview Known as the “City of Mosaics,” Madaba is one of Jordan’s cultural gems, where history, art, and spirituality intertwine. Its most famous treasure is the 6th-century Mosaic Map of the Holy Land at St. George’s Church, considered the oldest surviving cartographic depiction of the region. The town is dotted with ancient churches, archaeological parks, and vibrant local markets, offering visitors a unique blend of antiquity and local life. ⸻ 🚩 Highlights • St. George’s Church: Home to the famous Mosaic Map. • Madaba Archaeological Park: Preserves stunning mosaics from private villas and chapels. • Church of the Apostles: Featuring a large mosaic floor with a personification of the Sea. • Mount Nebo (nearby): A biblical site believed to be where Moses viewed the Promised Land. • Handicraft Shops & Markets: Ideal for buying mosaic souvenirs and traditional crafts. ⸻ 🚇 Transportation • From Amman: About 45 minutes by car or taxi. • Often visited as part of a day trip combined with Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea. ⸻ 🎟️ Visitor Info • Entrance Fees: Most churches and parks cost around 1–2 JOD each. • Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn for mild weather. ⸻ 🌟 Verdict Madaba is a must-visit for art, history, and culture lovers. With its mosaics, religious heritage, and proximity to Mount Nebo, it makes a perfect stop on any Jordan itinerary.

This time, I arranged half a day to explore Madaba in Jordan. This small town is famous for its exquisite mosaic art and is known as the 'City of Mosaics'. The first stop was St. George’s Church, which houses the oldest map of the Middle East in the world—the Madaba Map. This mosaic map, depicting the Holy Land in the 6th century AD, is an important artifact for understanding ancient geography. Although parts of it have been damaged, you can still clearly see details such as Jerusalem and the Jordan River, which is very impressive. Next, we went to the Madaba Archaeological Park, which showcases more well-preserved mosaic floors, as well as Roman and Byzantine ruins, giving a sense of the city's historical depth. Finally, we walked through the alleys of the old town, admired local handicrafts, enjoyed the leisurely atmosphere, and had a traditional Jordanian meal. Madaba may be small, but its rich cultural heritage and unique art make it well worth a visit!

Madaba, a hidden gem in Jordan, offers a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich history and culture. 🏙️ Known for its remarkable Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, one of the city's highlights is the famous mosaic map of the Holy Land found in St. George’s Church. 🖼️ It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Jordan, as it’s not just an artistic masterpiece but also a key historical treasure. ⛪ Apart from its mosaics, Madaba is home to welcoming locals, delicious food, and a relaxed atmosphere perfect for exploring on foot. 🚶♂️ The city’s calm vibe offers a peaceful escape compared to more tourist-heavy spots in Jordan. Whether you're admiring the intricate mosaics or wandering through its charming streets, Madaba is a place that makes you feel connected to the ancient world. 🌍 During my trip to Jordan, I visited Madaba in the summer, and it truly made my vacation special. 😎 It’s one of those destinations you don’t want to miss if you’re traveling through the region! #celebrateit

#2024TravelReview The 6th century ancient Middle East map inlaid with mosaics on the floor of St. George's Orthodox Church is the oldest map of the Middle East in the world✨️. When driving from Amman to the Dead Sea, you will pass through Madaba on the way. You can visit it along the way. The nearby shops also sell mosaic-related products such as souvenir magnets and daily necessities😊. #travelcoolexperiences #historicalsites #familytravel 🕰️Business hours: 9:00-16:30 📍Address: Madaba, Jordan 💰Per capita consumption: 5 Jordanian rupees 🏖️Atmosphere/Facilities: Solemn and solemn✨️ 💞Recommendation reason: The ancient 6th century mosaic map is worth seeing😍 🗓️Itinerary: You can spend two hours here on the way from Amman to the Dead Sea. 😉

Hey guys! A 7-day Jordan tour, and this article is all you need! Carefully selected routes and must-see attractions will help you explore Jordan with ease. Save this article now! -------------------- 🛣️Itinerary: Day 1: Arrive in Amman - Check in to the hotel. Private airport transfer service ensures a smooth start to your journey. Day 2: Amman Citadel - Jordan Museum - Jerash Roman Ruins - Hadrian's Arch - O Beach. A day trip through ancient and modern times, experiencing the fusion of history and natural beauty. Day 3: Dead Sea Museum - Madaba Archaeological Park - St. George's Church - Mount Nebo. After exploring the traces of history, enjoy the mystery and charm of Petra by Night. Day 4: Explore Petra, Treasury - Siq - Qasr al-Bint - Petra Altar. Every step is immersed in a thousand-year-old story. Day 5: Climb Mount Rum, overlooking the magnificent scenery and enjoying the peaceful time. Day 6: Free time in Aqaba in the morning, return to Amman by car in the afternoon, check in to the hotel. A Chinese-speaking driver and guide will provide attentive service throughout the day. Day 7: End of the journey in Amman. Private airport transfer service. Return home with fond memories. -------------------- Travel Essentials: 🧳 Going to Jordan? Bring these things! 📞SIM Card + Internet: Don't forget to buy a local SIM card. A smooth internet connection is essential for sharing beautiful scenery at any time. 🔌Plug Adapter: The plugs in Jordan may be different from ours. Bring an adapter to charge your devices without worry. 🪪Documents + Visa: Prepare your passport and visa. You will need them for entry and exit. Don't forget them! 👗Clothing + Comfortable Shoes: In November, the climate in Jordan is moderate, but the temperature difference between day and night is large. Bring some light clothing and a pair of comfortable shoes to walk around with ease. -------------------- Jordan Tour: More exciting experiences are waiting for you to explore! Follow me to unlock more private guides and explore Jordan together!

Madaba is located south of Amman, about an hour's drive away. Free admission for Jordan Pass holders. It is famous for its mosaic art. The city's most important ancient site is a church, decorated with mosaics on the walls, ceilings and floors. The most common mosaic pattern is the Tree of Life, a Christian symbol representing the connection between heaven and earth, knowledge, God's love and fertility. Jordanians call it the Madaba Tree. #visitancientsites

#freehotelstay Jordan is a treasure trove of historical, cultural, and natural wonders, offering visitors a diverse range of attractions to explore. Here are some of the must-visit points of interest (POIs) in Jordan: 1. **Petra:** One of the New Seven Wonders of the World, Petra is an ancient city carved into rose-colored sandstone cliffs. Explore its iconic Treasury, Monastery, and Royal Tombs, and marvel at the engineering prowess of the Nabateans. 2. **Wadi Rum:** Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is a stunning desert landscape of sandstone mountains and vast red sand dunes. Embark on a jeep safari, go camel trekking, or spend a night under the stars in a traditional Bedouin camp. 3. **Dead Sea:** The lowest point on Earth, the Dead Sea is famous for its hypersaline water, which allows swimmers to float effortlessly. Relax and rejuvenate with a therapeutic mud bath or simply soak up the sun on the sea's shores. 4. **Jerash:** Explore the remarkably well-preserved ancient city of Jerash, known for its Greco-Roman ruins, colonnaded streets, and impressive amphitheater. Witness the grandeur of Jerash's past as you wander through its archaeological wonders. 5. **Amman Citadel:** Discover the rich history of Jordan's capital at the Amman Citadel, an ancient hilltop fortress overlooking the city. Explore archaeological ruins dating back to the Bronze Age, including the Temple of Hercules and the Umayyad Palace. 6. **Madaba:** Visit the town of Madaba, known for its intricate Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, including the famous Madaba Map depicting the Holy Land. Don't miss the stunning mosaics at the 6th-century St. George's Greek Orthodox Church. 7. **Dana Biosphere Reserve:** Immerse yourself in Jordan's natural beauty at the Dana Biosphere Reserve, a sprawling wilderness of rugged mountains, verdant valleys, and diverse wildlife. Explore hiking trails, spot rare birds, and experience Bedouin hospitality in local villages. 8. **Aqaba:** Relax on the shores of the Red Sea in Aqaba, Jordan's coastal resort city. Dive or snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, indulge in water sports, or take a boat trip to explore nearby marine reserves. From ancient wonders to stunning natural landscapes, Jordan's POIs offer a glimpse into the country's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you're an adventure seeker, history buff, or simply seeking relaxation, Jordan has something to offer every traveler.

The St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church in Madaba is a testament to the city’s rich historical and religious heritage. Built between 1880 and 1883 AD, the church was constructed on the site of the old city acropolis. It was later recognized by the Vatican as a Shrine of the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist, making it a significant pilgrimage site. The church is dedicated to Saints John the Baptist and his famous cousin, Jesus. Inside, you’ll find a stunning mosaic of the town and a crypt with a crucifix representing the crucified Christ as well an exhibition about the life of bedouins. Excavations conducted under the church have revealed many evidences about the city’s long history. Don't miss out on climbing up the bell tower for a 360 panorama view over the city. #tripblazers

great feeling to visit Mount Nebo where was prophet Moses #Nebo #MountNebo

"Madaba Archaeological Park" is located in the city of Madaba, 30km from Amman. Madaba is known worldwide as the "city of mosaics". The archaeological park is centered around the Church of the Virgin, and is quite large for its entrance, and has more mosaics than the Church of St. George!? I think. The mosaics are said to be from around the 6th century, but they are well preserved and it's hard to believe they are 1500 years old. The life of the time is depicted in the intricate mosaics, which are beautiful. It reminds me of a world history textbook, and I can't help but trip back 1500 years... Address: Hussein bin Ali Street, Madab Access: 1 hour by car from Amman Opening hours: 8:00-16:00 Tourist attractions: Church of St. George Dining & Restaurants: Local restaurants Shopping: Small souvenir shops

Madaba is an ancient town in Jordan#staycation , southwest of the capital Amman. It’s known for its 6th-century mosaic map of the Holy Land in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. The Madaba Archaeological Park preserves the mosaic-rich Church of the Virgin Mary and artifacts from the Hellenistic, Roman,

#staycations Mount Nebo is an elevated ridge located in Jordan, approximately 710 metres above sea level. Part of the Abarim mountain range, Mount Nebo is mentioned in the Bible as the place where Moses was granted a view of the Promised Land before his death.

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According to the Bible, Moses, the founder of Judaism, spent the last days of his life here and ascended to heaven. Moses is an important figure in Christianity after God and Jesus, and is one of the six emissaries of Islam. Therefore, the area attracts a large number of religious believers and Western tourists to worship and visit each year. On the current Mount Nebo, the remains of the Moses era have disappeared. There is only one main church built in the 4th century AD on the hill, and several tombs with mosaics of Marseilles are placed next to the main church. Next to the main church stands a huge steel serpent cross that symbolizes the Scepter of Moses. Nepal is 870 meters above sea level and has excellent views. There is a sign on the top of the mountain that details the direction and distance of the historically famous religious sites. Looking west on the top of the mountain, the Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley have a panoramic view. If the weather is fine, you can also see the holy city on the west bank of the Jordan River the steeple of the Jerusalem church and the historic city of Bethlehem. At night, you can see the lights of the city.

The prestigious Mont Nebo is the founder of Judaism, Moses, who spent the rest of his life and ascended to heaven, and is one of the most awe-inspiring places in Jordan. The main church on the hill was built in the early 4th century AD. There are several tombs built in 531 AD with mosaic mosaics. In front of the main church stands a huge steel snake cross that symbolizes the Scepter of Moses. At the entrance to the scenic spot is a huge stone monument that records the name of the participants of the Mount Nebo, as well as the biography of Pope Paul II to Mount Nebo. Standing on the top of the mountain, looking west, the Dead Sea and the Jordan Valley have a panoramic view. If the sky is clear, you can also see the holy city of Jerusalem on the west bank of the Jordan River and the historic city of Bethlehem. Madaba, where Mount Nebo is located, is known as the City of Mosaics. The various pieces are processed through a unique process to form the most prestigious mosaic process. There are hundreds of mosaic mosaics scattered throughout the town's churches and homes.