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A 6,000-seat marvel of ancient Rome, and the most impressive monument of old Philadelphia, showcasing the grandeur of Jordan’s rich history.
This stunningly restored Roman Theater is the crown jewel of Amman’s historical treasures, showcasing the grandeur of Roman Philadelphia. Nestled into the northern slope of a hill, this awe-inspiring amphitheater seats 6,000 and captivates visitors with its ancient splendor. For the most enchanting photographs, visit in the morning when the light is gently diffused, or capture the breathtaking vistas from the top tiers just before sunset.
Under Roman rule, Amman was chosen as the glittering capital of the Roman Empire, but the city was then called Philadelphia, after its Ptolemaic ruler, Philadelphus.
The theatre was built in the period 138-161 CE, which dates back to the reign of Roman emperor Antoninus Pius. The sole centerpiece of the city, the magnificent masterpiece was designed to be northerly-oriented, to keep the sun off its spectators, and could seat up to 6,000 people on its steep stairs.
Like any other Roman Theatre in the world, it was constructed upon the same three building blocks: the cavea, the orchestra and the scaenae frons. The cavea is nothing more than the seating space that contained the largest number of spectators. The highest rank was known as ‘the gods’; although far from the stage, this section offered a good view, thanks to the lofty position and steepness of the stairs. The orchestra, on the other hand, is the area directly in front of the stage, reserved for VIPs to ensure they didn’t miss a split second of the action. The two stories rising from the stage upwards are the saenae fons, and were used as a backstage space of sorts.
The government of Jordan started restoring the theatre in 1957. unfortunately, none of the original material was used in the process, yet the final outcome is certainly impressive.
Today, the Roman Theatre is again in use for performances, concerts, and events. In addition, halls on both sides of the stage house two small heritage museums: The Folklore Museum and the Museum of Popular Traditions.
The row of columns in front of the theatre is what remains of the colonnades which flanked the Roman Forum, a public square, once among the largest of the Empire (100 x 50 metres). East of it is the Odeon, a smaller Roman auditorium for musical performances.
The Roman Theatre is always open for visitors, and also hosts many local events such as Al-Balad Music Festival. So be sure not to miss out on this dreamy combination of history and art.
The cavea, the semicircular seating space carved into the Jabal Al-Jofeh hill in three horizontal sections with a total of 44 rows can seat around 6,000 people. It faces north so that the audiences are protected from the sun. Social rank dictated the places for the audience. The urban poor, foreigners, slaves, and women were restricted to the upper section.
Explore the iconic Roman Theater in Amman, a breathtaking historical landmark that showcases Jordan’s rich cultural heritage. Step back in time to experience the grandeur of Roman architecture amidst the bustling heart of the city.
Its clever design, carved into the hillside, ensured optimal acoustics and visibility from every seat, creating an unforgettable experience for audiences. Whether you’re exploring its 33 rows of ancient tiers or imagining the vibrant performances and gatherings of a bygone era, this architectural masterpiece offers a journey through time.
With the stunning backdrop of Amman’s Citadel looming above, the Roman Theater stands as a testament to the city’s long-standing cultural significance. Ready to uncover the magic of Amman’s past? Visit the Roman Theater and step into history today!
Beyond its historical allure, the theater is still in use today, hosting various concerts and events at the Roman Theater in Amman, where the magnificent backdrop of the ancient structure adds a unique touch to modern performances.
The Roman Theater in Amman, Jordan is a must-see for history lovers and tourists alike, with an affordable entrance fee that typically costs around 2 Jordanian Dinars (JOD) for tourists and 0.25 JOD for Jordanian residents. This fee also includes access to the nearby Jordan Folklore Museum and Jordanian Museum of Popular Traditions, both located within the theater complex. While fees are generally consistent, they may vary for special events or concerts, so it’s always best to check in advance.
For those planning a visit, the Roman Theater in Amman’s opening hours are typically from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, though hours may vary depending on the season. Whether you refer to it as the Roman Theater Amman Jordan or the Amman Jordan Roman Theater, this awe-inspiring site offers a glimpse into the past while remaining an active part of Jordan’s cultural scene today.
