Difference between revisions of "Amman" - New World Encyclopedia

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{{Infobox Settlement
 
{{Infobox Settlement
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|official_name         = Amman
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|official_name = Ammān
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|native_name = عمان
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|native_name = {{lang|ar|عمّان ''ʿAmmān''}}
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|image_skyline          = Jordan_-_Amman_-_Skyline_View.PNG
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|settlement_type        = City
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|image_caption         =  
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<!-- images and maps  —--------->
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|image_flag             = Amman Jordan Flag.svg
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|image_skyline            =  Amman.jpg
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|imagesize                =
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|image_caption = A view of Amman, Jordan from the Citadel atop Jabal al-Qal'a
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|image_seal =  
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| image_flag             = Amman Jordan Flag.svg
 
|image_map              = Amman location.png
 
|image_map              = Amman location.png
 
|mapsize                =  
 
|mapsize                =  
 
|map_caption            = Location of Amman within [[Jordan]].
 
|map_caption            = Location of Amman within [[Jordan]].
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|subdivision_type       = [[Countries of the world|Country]]
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|coordinates_region = JO
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|subdivision_name       = [[Jordan]]
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|subdivision_type = [[Countries of the world|Country]]
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|subdivision_type1     = [[Governorates of Jordan|Governorate]]
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|subdivision_name = {{flag|Jordan}}
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|subdivision_name1     = [[Amman Governorate|Capital Governorate]]
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|subdivision_type1 = [[Governorlolates of Jordan|Governorate]]
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|leader_title           = [[Mayor]]
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|subdivision_name1 = [[Amman Governorate|Capital Governorate]]
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|leader_name           = [[Omar AlMaani]]
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|leader_title = [[Mayor]]
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|area_total_km2             =  
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|leader_name = [[Abdul Halim Kilani]]
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|area_land_km2             =
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|established_title      = Founded <!-- Settled —>
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||population_as_of       = 2005
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|established_date      = 7000 B.C.E.
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|population_note       =  
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|established_title2      = Municipality <!-- Settled —>
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|population_footnotes= <ref>[http://www.dos.gov.jo/ Jordan Department of Statistics]</ref>
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|established_date2      = 1909
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|population_total      = 2125400
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|area_total_km2 = 1680
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|elevation_m             = 773
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|area_land_km2 = <!--land area refers to the area without including water are for the port cities—>
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|elevation_ft           = 2356
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|population_as_of = 2010
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|website               = http://www.ammancity.gov.jo
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|population_note =
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|footnotes             = 1. Population refers to Greater Amman
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|population_footnotes= <ref> Department of Statistics- Jordan. Dos.gov.jo.</ref><ref name="trueknowledge.com">[http://www.trueknowledge.com/q/amman_population_in_2011 Amman population in 2011]. True Knowledge. Retrieved March 5, 2012.</ref>
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}}  
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|population_urban =  1,919,000
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'''Amman''' ({{pronounced|ɑˈmɑːn}}), sometimes spelled '''Ammann''' ([[Arabic language|Arabic]] '''عمان''' '''ʿAmmān'''), is the [[capital]] city of the [[Hashemite]] Kingdom of [[Jordan]], a city of 2,125,400 inhabitants (2005 estimate), and the administrative capital and commercial center of Jordan. It is also the largest city in Jordan. It is the capital city of [[Amman Governorate]].
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|population_metro = 2,125,000
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|elevation_m = 777–1400
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|elevation_ft = 2,564
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|timezone                =[[Greenwich Mean Time|GMT]] +2
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|utc_offset              =
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|timezone_DST            = +3
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| area_code              = +962(6)
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|website = http://www.ammancity.gov.jo/en/gam/index.asp
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|footnotes =
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}}
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'''Amman''', sometimes spelled '''Ammann''' ([[Arabic language|Arabic]] '''عمان''' '''ʿAmmān'''), is the capital, largest city, and economic center of the [[Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan]]. The city, which has served as both the modern and ancient capital, has a population of nearly 1.04 million, with 2.13 million in the metropolitan area known as Greater Amman. Due to the city’s modern-day prosperity and temperate climate, almost half of Jordan’s population is concentrated in the Amman area.
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Amman is a city of contrasts, a unique blend of old and new; its modern buildings blend with the remnants of ancient civilizations. It is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Numerous Biblical references are made to Amman, the Ammonite capital of Rabbath-Ammon.
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The city was originally built on seven hills, but it now spans over an area of 19 hills. Its downtown area sits at the bottom of four of its original seven hills, and is the location of most of the city's noteworthy sites. These include the remains of the ancient citadel, the adjoining archaeological museum, and a large, finely preserved Roman amphitheatre, which once seated 6,000. There are additional numerous sites of interest, Biblical, historical, or geological, which are in close proximity to Amman.
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{{toc}}
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The people of Amman are multi-cultural, multi-denominational, well educated and extremely hospitable. The city is the seat of one of the most politically liberal and advanced of the [[Arab]] nations, whose leaders have continually been committed to the [[peace]] process.
  
 
== Geography ==
 
== Geography ==
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[[Image:Amman SPOT 1111.jpg|thumb|left|250px|Amman seen from SPOT satellite]]
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The name traces back to “Ammon,” the capital of the [[Ammonites]], a Semitic people spoken of in the [[Bible]].
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The name traces back to “Ammon,” the capital of the Ammonites, a Semitic people mentioned in the Bible.  
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Amman is located in a hilly area of northwestern [[Jordan]]. The city was originally built on seven hills, but it now spans over an area of 19 hills (each known as a ''jabal'' or "mountain"). The main areas of Amman gain their names from the hills and [[mountain]]s on whose slopes they lie. Many of the hills are higher than 2,625 feet (800 meters).
  
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Amman is located in a hilly area of north-western Jordan. The city was originally built on seven hills, but it now spans over an area of 19 hills (each known as a ''jabal'' or "mountain"). The main areas of Amman gain their names from the hills and mountains on whose slopes they lie. Many of the hills are higher than 800 metres.
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Because of the cooling effects of its location on a triangular [[plateau]], Amman enjoys four seasons of excellent weather as compared to other places in the region. [[Summer]] temperatures range from 82°F (28°C) to 95°F (35°C), but with very low [[humidity]] and frequent breezes. Spring and fall temperatures are extremely pleasant and mild. The [[winter]] sees nighttime temperatures frequently near 32°F (0°C), and [[snow]] is known in Amman. Total annual [[rain]]fall is 10.1 inches (258.3mm). It typically will not rain from June to the beginning of September, with cloudy and blue skies prevailing.  
  
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Because of the cooling effects of its location on a triangular [[plateau]], Amman enjoys four seasons of excellent weather as compared to other places in the region. Summer temperatures range from {{convert|28|°C|°F|lk=on|abbr=on}} - {{convert|35|°C|°F|abbr=on}}, but with very low [[humidity]] and frequent breezes. Spring and fall temperatures are extremely pleasant and mild. The winter sees nighttime temperatures frequently near {{convert|0|°C|°F|abbr=on}}, and [[snow]] is known in Amman. Total annual rainfall is 258.3mm. It typically will not rain from June to the beginning of September, with cloudy and blue skies prevailing.  
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The course of the seasonal river of Wadi Amman and tributaries run through Amman. The land area of the city is approximately 270 square miles (700 square kilometers).  
  
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The course of the seasonal river of Wadi Amman and tributaries run through Amman. The land area of the City is approximately 700 km2
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Amman has both a modern and historic touch. Old Amman is filled with [[souk]]s, or [[bazaar]]s, small shops, and single family dwellings all crowded together.  
  
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The arrival of more than a million Palestinian refugees from [[Israel]] after war in 1948 and 1967 has had a huge impact on Amman, along with internal migration from Badia and rural areas by of people moving to the city for work. The influx has strained scarce water supplies, and exposed Amman to the hazards of rapid expansion in the absence of careful municipal planning.
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West Amman, however, is less crowded and more scenic. Parks and wide boulevards with towering apartments and office buildings dominate the scene. Most of the city's [[Star (classification)|five-star]] and four-star hotels are located in this area. Villas and expensive apartment complexes are common. Shmeisani, the main economic center of Amman, and Abdoun, the up-scale residential district, are the two main areas of "West Amman," much different from the overly crowded Jabal al-Qalat in Old Amman. Shmeisani and Abdali are the two main financial districts.
  
 
== History ==
 
== History ==
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[[Image:RomanAmman.jpg|thumb|right|250px|The Roman Amphitheatre in downtown Amman]]
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[[Image:Amman3.jpeg|thumb|225px|Temple of Hercules.]]
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Archaeological discoveries in [['Ain Ghazal]], in eastern Amman, showed evidence of [[Neolithic]] settlement and artistic work, dating to around 8500 B.C.E.. The earliest remains of fortified settlements belong to the [[Chalcolithic Age]] (c. 4000 to 3000 B.C.E.).
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[[Image:Amman2.jpeg|thumb|right|225px|Amman seen from Citadel hill.]]
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In the 13th century B.C.E., the city was called '''Rabbath Ammon''' by the [[Ammon]]ites. The “royal city” which [[King David]]'s general [[Joab]] (II Samuel 12:26) took, was probably the acropolis on top of the plateau.  
 
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[[King David]] (1037-967 b.c.e.) sent [[Uriah the Hittite]] to his death in battle outside city so that he might marry his wife, [[Bathsheba]] (II Samuel 11). David's son Solomon had Ammonite wives, one of whom became the mother of [[Rehoboam]], Solomon's successor.
 
  
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The city was conquered by the [[Assyrian people|Assyrians]], followed by the [[Persian people|Persians]].
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[[Archaeology|Archaeological]] discoveries in [['Ain Ghazal]], in eastern Amman, showed evidence of [[Neolithic]] settlement and artistic work, dating to around 8500 B.C.E. The earliest remains of fortified settlements belong to the [[Chalcolithic Age]] (c. 4000 to 3000 B.C.E.).
  
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[[Alexander the Great]] conquered the region in 332 b.c.e. [[Ptolemy II Philadelphus]], the Hellenic ruler of Egypt, rebuilt the city and renamed it '''Philadelphia'''. The [[Seleucids]] conquered the city in 218 b.c.e., beginning a period of turmoil.
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In the thirteenth century B.C.E., the city was called '''Rabbath Ammon''' by the [[Ammon]]ites. The “royal city” which [[King David]]'s general [[Joab]] (II Samuel 12:26) took, was probably the acropolis on top of the plateau. King David (1037-967 B.C.E.) sent [[Uriah the Hittite]] to his death in battle outside city so that he might marry his wife, [[Bathsheba]] (II Samuel 11). David's son Solomon had Ammonite wives, one of whom became the mother of [[Rehoboam]], Solomon's successor.  
  
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The city became part of the ancient Arab, Semitic, trading kingdom, the[[Nabataeans|Nabataean]], until 63 C.E., when Philadelphia came under [[Roman Empire|Roman]] control and joined the [[Decapolis]]. In 106 c.e. it was included in the Roman province of [[Arabia]] and rebuilt.
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The city was conquered by the [[Assyrian people|Assyrians]], followed by the [[Persian people|Persians]]. [[Alexander the Great]] conquered the region in 332 B.C.E. [[Ptolemy II Philadelphus]], the Hellenic ruler of [[Egypt]], rebuilt the city and renamed it ''Philadelphia.'' The [[Seleucids]] conquered the city in 218 B.C.E., beginning a period of turmoil.
  
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In 326 C.E., [[Christianity]] became the [[religion]] of the empire and Philadelphia became the seat of a [[Diocese|bishopric]] during the beginning of the [[Byzantine Empire|Byzantine]] era. One of the churches of this period can be seen on the city's Citadel.
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The city became part of the ancient Arab, Semitic, trading kingdom, the [[Nabataeans|Nabataean]], until 63 C.E., when Philadelphia came under [[Roman Empire|Roman]] control and joined the [[Decapolis]]. In 106 C.E. it was included in the Roman province of [[Arabia]] and rebuilt.
  
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Philadelphia was renamed Amman during control of the [[Ghassanids|Ghassan]]ians,  a group of South Arabian Christian tribes who migrated from [[Yemen]] in the third century.  
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In 326 C.E., [[Christianity]] became the [[religion]] of the empire and Philadelphia became the seat of a [[Diocese|bishopric]] during the beginning of the [[Byzantine Empire|Byzantine]] era. One of the churches of this period can be seen on the city's Citadel.
  
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With the rise of [[Islam]], Arab general [[Yazid ibn Abi Sufy]] took Amman in CE 635 c.e. The city flourished under the [[Caliphate]]s (with nearby capital) of the [[Umayyad]]s (in [[Damascus]]) and the [[Abbasid]]s (in [[Baghdad]]).  
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Philadelphia was renamed Amman during control of the [[Ghassanids|Ghassanians]], a group of South Arabian Christian tribes who migrated from [[Yemen]] around 250 C.E. With the rise of [[Islam]], Arab general [[Yazid ibn Abi Sufy]] took Amman in 635 C.E. The city flourished under the [[Caliphate]]s (with nearby capital) of the [[Umayyad]]s (in [[Damascus]]) and the [[Abbasid]]s (in [[Baghdad]]).  
  
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Earthquakes destroyed the city, which by 1300 appeared to have become almost deserted. It remained a small village and a pile of ruins until 1878, when the [[Ottoman]] Turks resettled the site with [[Circassian]] refugees from [[Russia]].
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[[Earthquake]]s destroyed the city, which by 1300 appeared to have become almost deserted. It remained a small village and a pile of ruins until 1878, when the [[Ottoman Turks]] brought in [[Circassian]] refugees from [[Russia]].
  
 
The tide changed when the [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman]] [[Sultan]] decided to build the [[Hejaz railway]], linking Damascus and [[Medina]], facilitating both the annual [[hajj]] pilgrimage and permanent trade, putting Amman, a major station, back on the commercial map.
 
The tide changed when the [[Ottoman Empire|Ottoman]] [[Sultan]] decided to build the [[Hejaz railway]], linking Damascus and [[Medina]], facilitating both the annual [[hajj]] pilgrimage and permanent trade, putting Amman, a major station, back on the commercial map.
  
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After [[World War I]] (1914-1918), [[Transjordan]] became part of the Palestine mandate. In 1921, Britain established a protected emirate of Transjordan, ruled by [[Abdullah I of Jordan|Abdullah I]], who was son of [[Husayn ibn 'Ali]], then king of the Hejaz and sharif of Mecca.  
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After [[World War I]] (1914-1918), [[Transjordan]] became part of the [[Palestine Mandate]]. In 1921, [[Britain]] established a protected emirate of Transjordan, ruled by [[Abdullah I of Jordan|Abdullah I]]. In 1921, Abdullah I chose Amman as seat of government for his newly-created state, and later as the capital of the [[Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan]]. As there was no palatial building, he started his reign from the railway station, with his office in a train car.
  
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In 1921, [[Abdullah I of Jordan|Abdullah I]] chose Amman as seat of government for his newly-created state, and later as the capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. As there was no palatial building, he started his reign from the station, with his office in a train car.  
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Amman remained a small city until 1948, when the population expanded considerably due to an influx of [[Palestinian refugee]]s from what became [[Israel]] after the first [[Israel's War of Independence|Arab-Israeli]] war in 1948–1949. Amman has developed rapidly since 1952 under the leadership of two Hashemite Kings, [[Hussein I of Jordan]] and [[Abdullah II of Jordan]].
  
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Amman remained a small city until 1948, when the population expanded considerably due to an influx of [[Palestinian refugee]]s from what is now [[Israel]] after the first Arab-Israeli war in 1948–49.  
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After the [[Six-Day War]] of 1967, when Jordan lost all territory west of the [[Jordan River]] to Israel, a second and larger wave of refugees arrived. In 1970, Amman was the site of clashes between the [[Palestine Liberation Organization]] (PLO) and the [[Royal Jordanian Land Force|Jordanian army]]. Everything around the Royal Palace sustained heavy damage from shelling. Most of Amman suffered great damage from PLO rockets and the Jordanian army's shells.
  
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Amman developed rapidly since 1952 under the leadership of two Hashemite Kings, [[Hussein of Jordan]] and [[Abdullah II of Jordan]].
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A third wave of Palestinian and Jordanian and Southeast Asian refugees - working as [[domestic worker]]s - arrived in Amman from [[Kuwait]] after the [[Gulf War]] of 1991.
  
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A second, larger wave of refugees arrived after the [[Six-Day War]] of 1967, when Jordan lost all territory west of the Jordan River to [[Israel]].  
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The first wave of [[Iraq]]i refugees settled in the city after the first Gulf War, with a second wave also arriving after the [[2003 invasion of Iraq]]. New construction within the city increased dramatically with new districts of the city being founded, particularly in West Amman, following this flood of refugees.
  
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In 1970, Amman was the site of clashes between the [[Palestine Liberation Organization]] (PLO) and the [[Royal Jordanian Land Force|Jordanian army]]. Everything around the Royal Palace sustained heavy damage from shelling. Most of Amman suffered great damage from PLO rockets and the Jordanian army's shells.
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On November 9, 2005, coordinated explosions rocked three hotels in Amman. The [[Islam|Islamist]] organization, [[al-Qaeda]], claimed responsibility, and Jordanian terrorist leader, [[Abu Musab al-Zarqawi]], who has since been killed, was also believed responsible.  
  
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A third wave of Palestinian and Jordanian and [[Southeast Asia]]ns, working as [[domestic worker]]s, refugees arrived in Amman from [[Kuwait]] after the [[Gulf War]] of 1991. The first wave of Iraqi refugees settled in the city after the first Gulf War, with a second wave also arriving after the [[2003 invasion of Iraq]]. During the last 10 years the amount of new buildings within the city has increased dramatically with new districts of the city being founded (particularly in West Amman).
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A lone gunman attacked Western tourists during a guided trip to the downtown Roman Theatre in September 2006, shooting five of them, one fatally. The man was immediately caught, and claimed to have acted in response to the fighting between [[Israel]] and [[Lebanon]] during the prior months.
  
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On November 9, 2005, [[2005 Amman bombings|coordinated explosions]] rocked three hotels in Amman. The [[Islamism|Islamist]] organization, [[al-Qaeda]], claimed responsibility, and Jordanian terrorist leader, [[Abu Musab al-Zarqawi]], who has since been killed, was also believed responsible.  
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==Administration==
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Administratively, [[Jordan]] is divided into 12 governorates, each headed by a governor appointed by the king. They are the sole authorities for all government departments and development projects in their respective areas. The governorates are subdivided into approximately 52 subdistricts. The governorates are: Ajlun, Amman, Aqaba, Balqa, Irbid, Jerash, Kerak, Ma'an, Madaba, Mafraq, Tafilah, Zarqa.
  
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==Administration==
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The Amman Governorate, officially known as ''Muhafazat al-Asima'' ([[Arabic language|Arabic]] محافظة العاصمة, [[English language|English]] translation: ''The Capital Governorate''), is further divided into 20 regions. Amman City is the governorate's capital city, and serves as Jordan's national capital as well.
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Amman, one of 12 governorates of the constitutional monarchy of Jordan, is divided into 20 regions, each of which is a small town that provides all needed services – except for planning, zoning and the disbursement of funds. The regions are: Basman, Marka, Al Nusr, Al Yarmouk, Ras Al ‘Ain, Badr, Zahran, Al ‘Abdali, Tariq, Al Qweismeh, Khraibet Essouq, Mqabalein, Al Jbeiha, Wadi Esseir, Sweileh, Tla’ Al ‘Ali, Shafa Badran, Badr Al Jadeeda, and Abu Nseir.
 
  
 
== Economy ==
 
== Economy ==
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[[Image:Amman downTown.jpg|thumb|right|The old downtown of Amman]]
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[[Image:Amman downTown.jpg|thumb|left|250px|The old downtown section of Amman.]]
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Amman is a regional hub, and is Jordan's chief commercial, financial, and international trade center. A construction boom has brought massive economic growth.  
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Amman is a regional hub in the communications, transportation, [[medical tourism]], education, and investment. All business dealings with Iraq flow through Amman in some way. Its airport, Queen Alia International Airport, is the hub of the national carrier, Royal Jordanian, which is a major airline in the region. Amman is a major tourist attraction in the country because most of the countries foreign tourists arrive in Jordan through Amman. Its construction boom is helping the real estate economy boom and its banking and finance sectors are also feeling the results of this massive economic growth in Jordan. All major highways of Jordan cross in Amman making the capital busy with freight trucks, buses and cars passing through the city.
 
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Amman has both a modern and historic touch. Old Amman is filled with [[souk]]s, or [[bazaar]]s, small shops, and single family dwellings all crowded together. 
 
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West Amman, however, is less crowded and more scenic. Parks and wide boulevards with towering apartments and office buildings dominate the scene. Most of the city's [[Star (classification)|5-star]] and 4-star hotels are located here as well. Villas and expensive apartment complexes are very common. Most of Amman's foreign business flows through here. Shmeisani, the main economic center of Amman, and Abdoun, the up-scale residential district, are the two main areas of "West Amman" much different from the overly crowded Jabal al-Qalat in Old Amman. Shmeisani and Abdali are the two main financial districts in Amman.
 
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Amman is currently experiencing rapid growth that is reshaping the ancient city into a commercial hub. New projects and proposals in and around the city include:
 
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*The [[Abdali Downtown]] project: this new development in the heart of Amman is among the largest projects under construction in the kingdom, and is a mixed-use development consisting of stores, malls, restaurants, and residential and office buildings. A new library and performing arts center are also under construction, and the landscaping will include large amounts of greenery, along with man made [[canal]]s and water fountains.  The project is expected to be completed by 2010.
 
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*The construction of the American University of Jordan.
 
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*The construction of the [[Jordan Gate Towers]] near the [[6th Circle]], which is nearly completed, is being funded by [[Bahrain|Bahraini]] and Kuwaiti entrepreneurs.  The two identical skyscrapers will house office buildings.
 
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*Bonyan city, which will consist of 5 new [[skyscraper]]s that will house apartments and offices
 
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*The Heights Tower, consisting of 35 floors, will house apartments and it is currently under construction.
 
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*Sky Tower, a [[Residential area|residential]] tower consisting of 30 floors, is under construction.
 
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*Amman Financial Tower, consisting of 56 floors, has been approved for construction.
 
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*Betina City consists of 3 central skyscrapers, a mega-mall, a suspended river, and 3 additional towers.
 
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*The Emirates Towers, which consists of several spiral thin glass buildings, are being constructed by [[Emaar Properties]]
 
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*The Limitless Towers, two identical 65 floor buildings connected by a pedestrian walkway that will house the world's highest swimming pool. This twin tower project will be built in Abdoun.
 
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*The Abdoun suspended bridge, which spans Wadi Abdoun. This recently completed project reduces congestion in [[Wadi Abdoun]] and creates a new highway link between West and South Amman.  
 
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*The expansion of Queen Alia International Airport.
 
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*The Jordan Twin Towers, which are to be constructed by the [[Nuqul Group]], and will be 34 stories high. Expected to be complete by 2008.
 
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*The Andalucian Village, being constructed near Amman. This project will include over 600 villas, and consists of many facilities such as spas, fitness and health centers, swimming pools, and a recreation area to be completed by 2008. 64% of the village have already been sold.
 
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*A proposed Amman World Trade Center, which will consist of 33 floors.
 
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*A massive new Royal Jordanian headquarters
 
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These projects, along with the boom in the Jordanian real estate market and the construction of many other smaller projects, is resulting in a huge boom in terms of development, both in the city of Amman and in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan as a whole.
 
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== Transportation ==
 
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{{seealso|Transport in Jordan|List of roads in Amman}}
 
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The city's largest airport, [[Queen Alia International Airport]] situated about 30 minutes south of Amman, is the major [[international airport]] for Jordan and the [[airline hub|hub]] for [[Royal Jordanian]], the [[flag carrier]]. The airport has three [[airport terminal|terminals]], two passenger and one cargo, and in 2007 handled between 4 to 5 million passengers. The airport is undergoing expansion, including a new terminal costing $600M, that will allow the airport to handle over 9 million passengers. A new rail line being constructed will connect Queen Alia International with Raghadan, Mahatta, and [[Zarqa]]. Taxis and buses serve the airport 24/7.
 
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[[Marka International Airport]] is a one-terminal airport that serves primarily domestic and nearby international routes and the military.
 
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*Abdon Bridge is one of Amman Landmarks it Connects Abdon Circle With 5th circle. 
 
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The Hejaz [[Rail transport|railway]], built in the early 20th century, was used primarily for [[pilgrim]]s to reach the holy cities of [[Mecca]] and Medina, but now the rail line is basically used by [[Tourism|tourists]]. There are new projects that are being built to add more railines in the Kingdom, most of which will go through Amman.
 
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There are plans to construct a metro line along King Abdullah Street in Downtown Amman aimed at easing traffic congestion.
 
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Amman has a extensive [[highway]] system that links every part of the city to one another. Its highways also link nearby cities such as Zarqa and [[Madaba]]. The Amman-Zarqa highway become very congested with [[Commuting|commuter]]s at [[rush hour]] which is why a new [[commuter rail]] line is being constructed. Amman also has an extensive bus system. There are pedestrian tunnels that bring pedestrians from one side of a highway to another.
 
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There are eight circles, or [[roundabout]]s, that are used to go from one section of Amman to another. However, the city lacks an operable rail or [[Rapid transit|metro system]] which causes severe [[Traffic congestion|congestion]] in the city, especially in old Amman, where its narrow streets cannot handle many people. To add to the congestion, all the Kingdom's highways pass through Amman in some way intensifying traffic.
 
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By land, the city has frequent bus connections to other cities in Jordan, as well as to major cities in neighboring countries; the latter are also served by service taxis. Internal transport is served by a number of bus routes and taxis. Service taxis, which most often operate on fixed routes, are readily available and inexpensive. The two main bus and taxi stations are Abdali (near the [[King Abdullah I Mosque|King Abdullah Mosque]], the [[Parliament of Jordan|Parliament]] and Palace of Justice) and Raghadan (near the Roman Amphitheater in downtown). The city can suffer from considerable traffic congestion at peak hours, especially during summer months when affluent vacationers from the [[Persian Gulf|Gulf region]] summer in Amman to take advantage of its relatively mild weather.
 
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Mahmoud Elrawagah
 
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== Media ==
 
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The Jordan Media City, established in 2001, is the first of its kind in the region and plans to make Jordan the regional hub of communications.  It now transmits over 120 channels and still grows. Although not as popular as [[Beirut]] or [[Cairo]], many Jordanian singers work out of Amman.
 
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== Tourism ==
 
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[[Image:KingHusseinMosque.jpg|thumb|left|The [[Hussein of Jordan|King Hussein]] Mosque]]Much of Amman's tourism is focused in the older downtown area, which is centered around the old souk (a colorful traditional market) and the King Hussein Mosque. The downtown area (known locally as ''the Balad'') has been completely dwarfed by the sprawling urban areas that surround it. Despite the changes, much remains of its old character. For those seeking the atmosphere of the Old City, it is best to venture to the district east of [[Jabal Amman]]. There, in the bustle of daily life, you can explore the capital's greatest souks, fine museums, ancient constructions, monuments, and cultural sites.
 
−
 
 
−
The [[Citadel Hill, Amman|Citadel hill of Amman]], known as Jabal el Qala, has been inhabited for centuries, important as a military and religious site. It dates back to Roman and Byzantine times, and later work was carried out in the early Islamic era. Remains unearthed at the northern and eastern ends of the Citadel, possibly date back to the [[Bronze Age]]. The Citadel also is home to the Temple of Hercules which is said to have been constructed under the [[Roman Emperor]] [[Marcus Aurelius]] who reigned from 161-180 C.E., is similar to the [[Temple of Artemis]] in [[Ephesus]].
 
−
 
 
−
Since Amman resembles Rome, as it is situated on seven hills, the city was a favorite place for Roman soldiers and officials. Behind the [[Forum (Roman)|Roman forum]] stands a [[Roman theater (Jordan)|Roman theatre]]&mdash;the largest theatre in Jordan&mdash;with room for 6,000 spectators. Thought to have been built between 138 and 161 C.E. by the Roman Emperor [[Antoninus Pius]], it is constructed into the side of the mountain and is still used for sports displays and cultural events.
 
−
 
 
−
Amman is also home to some of the grandest mosques in the [[Middle East]], although they compare less favorably to the ones to be found in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]. The newest of these is the enormous [[King Abdullah I Mosque]], built between 1982 and 1989. It is capped by a magnificent blue mosaic [[dome]] beneath which 3,000 Muslims may offer prayer. The most unusual mosque in Amman is the [[Abu Darweesh Mosque]] atop Jabal Ashrafieh (the highest point in the city). It is covered with an extraordinary black and white checkered pattern and is unique to Jordan. It is striking and visible from quite some distance. In contrast, the interior is totally free of the black and white scheme. Instead, there are light colored walls and Persian carpets. This religious building was erected by one of Amman's Circassian immigrants.
 
−
 
 
−
Amman is also home to many jewelers and souvenir shops for citizens and tourists alike. Most of Amman is well paved and nicely renovated. A new phase in Eastern Amman, the oldest part of the city, will repaint and renovate broken down building and build kiosks and street maps all over to the city to make touring Amman much easier for tourists. Amman is also a major destination for  foreign students seeking study in Arabic. Amman's world-class hospitals are frequent destinations for those who seek medical treatment.
 
−
 
 
−
A new construction phase in Abdali will transform downtown Amman into a more desirable place for investment. The new development is mostly for business purposes and the rest are residential hi-rises and shopping centers. Office buildings and a new boulevard containing easy access to malls, restaurants, hotels, and residential buildings. This $1.5 billion construction plan should be completed by 2010.
 
  
−
Unfortunately, a lone deranged gunman attacked Western tourists during a guided trip to the downtown Roman theatre in September 2006, shooting five of them, one fatally. The man was immediately apprehended, and claimed to have acted in response to the fighting between Israel and [[Lebanon]] during the prior months. Despite this attack, tourism in Amman continues on a daily basis, and the city's tourist locations are generally well-policed. Given Jordan's location in a region that sees frequent conflict and violence, by statistics and by general mood, Amman remains a safe and interesting place to visit. For example, despite this killing, there is little or no violent or petty crime in Amman, especially against visitors, who uniformly report feeling safe at all hours in practically all locations in the city.  
+
Projects include: The [[Abdali Downtown]] project, which consists of stores, malls, restaurants, residential and office buildings, a new [[library]] and [[performing arts]] center, landscaping, man made [[canal]]s and water fountains; Bonyan city, which consists of five new [[skyscraper]]s for apartments and offices; the [[Jordan Gate Towers]], which are two identical skyscrapers to house offices; Amman Financial Tower, consisting of 56 floors; the Limitless Towers, which are two identical 65 floor buildings connected by a pedestrian walkway that will house the world's highest swimming pool; the Andalucian Village, which includes over 600 villas, and consists of spas, fitness and health centers, swimming pools, and a recreation area; and a massive new Royal Jordanian headquarters.
  
−
=== Shopping ===
+
[[Phosphate]] extraction and [[petroleum]] refining are the most significant industries. Other important industries include food and [[tobacco]] processing, manufacture of [[textile]]s, [[paper]], [[plastic]]s and metal products.
−
Shopping is continually becoming more popular in Jordanian culture and is very notable in the past five years, with huge mega [[Shopping mall|mall]]s across Amman popping up such as [[Mecca Mall]], [[Abdoun Mall]], [[Amman Mall]], [[City Mall, Jordan|City Mall]], [[Plaza Mall]], and [[Al Baraka Mall]]
 
  
−
. These malls all carry label names helping attracting tourists.
+
Its [[airport]], [[Queen Alia International Airport]], is the hub of the national carrier, Royal Jordanian, which is a major airline in the region. The airport has three terminals, two passenger and one cargo, and in 2007 handled between 4 to 5 million passengers.  
  
 +
The Hejaz [[Rail transport|railway]], built in the early 20th century, was used primarily for [[pilgrim]]s to reach the holy cities of [[Mecca]] and [[Medina]], but now the rail line is basically used by [[Tourism|tourists]]. Amman has an extensive [[highway]] system that links every part of the city to one another. Its highways also link nearby cities such as Zarqa and [[Madaba]].
  
 
==Demographics==
 
==Demographics==
 +
[[Image:Amman Coptic Church.jpg|right|thumb|180px|A Coptic Church.]]
 +
[[Image:King Abdullah Mosque at night.jpg|thumb|180px|King Abdullah Mosque at night]]
 +
The [[population]] was 2,125,400 in 2005. [[Arab]]s make up 98 percent of the population, [[Circassian]]s make up one percent, and [[Chechen people|Chechen]]s, [[Armenians]], and [[Kurd]]s make up the remaining one percent.
  
−
== Culture ==
+
The official [[language]] is [[Arabic language|Arabic]]. [[English language|English]] is used widely in commerce and government and among educated people. Arabic and English must be taught at public and private [[school]]s, while [[French language|French]] may be taught at some schools but is not obligatory.
−
Amman is home to many diverse religious sects making up the two primary religions of Jordan, [[Islam]] and Christianity.  Numerous [[mosque]]s and [[Church (building)|church]]es dot the capital. The most famous mosque of Amman is the King Abduallah I Mosque which can house almost 3,000 people. Most of the people in Jordan are [[Muslim]]s, 90% and 8% [[Christian]]s.
 
  
−
King Abduallah is currently proposing the cultural center called Darat King Abduallah. Proposals have been submitted by  [[Zaha Hadid]],<ref>[http://www.worldarab.net/Wiki/tabid/181/topic/Darat%20King%20Abdullah%20in%20Amman%20by%20Zaha%20Hadid/language/en-US/Default.aspx Zaha Hadid]</ref> Delugan Meissl Associates<ref>[http://www.worldarab.net/Wiki/tabid/181/topic/Darat%20King%20Abdullah%20in%20Amman%20by%20Delgan%20Meissl%20Asso/language/en-US/Default.aspx Delugan Meissl Associates]</ref> and [[Snøhetta (company)|Snøhetta]].<ref>[http://www.worldarab.net/Wiki/tabid/181/topic/Darat%20King%20Abdullah%20in%20Amman%20by%20Snohetta/language/en-US/Default.aspx Snøhetta]</ref>
+
Amman is home to many diverse religious sects making up the two primary religions of Jordan, [[Islam]] and [[Christianity]]. Numerous [[mosque]]s and [[Church (building)|church]]es dot the capital. The most famous mosque in Amman is the King Abduallah I Mosque which can house nearly 3,000 people.  
  
 +
Amman is the location of the University of Jordan, founded in 1962, and several [[museum]]s and [[Library|libraries]], including the National Library.
  
 
==Places of interest==
 
==Places of interest==
−
Amman is conveniently located for many Jordanian attractions favoured by tourists.  It is a mere 45 minute trip by car to several interesting locations:
+
Amman is conveniently located for many tourist attractions, including:
−
 
 
 
* The Baptism Site (''Al-Maghtas'' in Arabic) on the [[Jordan River]] where [[Jesus]] is believed to have been [[Baptism of Jesus|baptized by]] [[John the Baptist]]
 
* The Baptism Site (''Al-Maghtas'' in Arabic) on the [[Jordan River]] where [[Jesus]] is believed to have been [[Baptism of Jesus|baptized by]] [[John the Baptist]]
−
* [[Mount Nebo (Jordan)|Mount Nebo]] where, according to the [[Bible]], [[Moses]] is supposed to have died
+
* [[Mount Nebo (Jordan)|Mount Nebo]] where, according to the [[Bible]], [[Moses]] is said to have died
 
* The unique ultra saline waters of the [[Dead Sea]], home to many first-rate resorts
 
* The unique ultra saline waters of the [[Dead Sea]], home to many first-rate resorts
 
* [[Jerash]], a city of the Decapolis and considered one of the most important and best preserved [[Ancient Rome|Roman]] cities in the Near East
 
* [[Jerash]], a city of the Decapolis and considered one of the most important and best preserved [[Ancient Rome|Roman]] cities in the Near East
 
* The [[Hellenistic civilization|Hellenistic]] ruin of [[Qasr al Abd]], in the near-by valley of [[Wadi Al Seer]]
 
* The [[Hellenistic civilization|Hellenistic]] ruin of [[Qasr al Abd]], in the near-by valley of [[Wadi Al Seer]]
−
* [[Petra]], two hours from Aqaba, is one of the most breathtaking places in the world (one of the 7 wonders of the world)
+
* [[Petra]], two hours from Aqaba, is one of the most breathtaking places in the world (one of the seven wonders of the world)
−
* The beaches at [[Aqaba]], a shipping port and Jordan's only access to the [[Red Sea]]. Just about three of four hours from Amman by car or {{convert|350|km|mi|abbr=on}} away. You can also take a plane on Royal Jordanian from Queen Alia Airport to [[King Hussein International Airport]] (Aqaba Airport). The primarily industrial character of the town is mitigated by the fact that it is set between sprawling mountain ranges and boasts some of the finest [[coral reef]]s in the region.
+
* The beaches at [[Aqaba]], a shipping port and Jordan's only access to the [[Red Sea]]  
−
*The unique geological rock formations of [[Wadi Rum]]. The colorful rocks are best viewed at sunset and located a half hour away from Petra. Wadi Rum has connections with [[T. E. Lawrence]]; consequently the movie [[Lawrence of Arabia (film)|Lawrence of Arabia]] filmed there for a number of scenes.
+
* The unique geological rock formations of [[Wadi Rum]]. The colorful rocks are best viewed at sunset and are located a half hour away from Petra. Wadi Rum has connections with [[T. E. Lawrence]]; consequently the movie [[Lawrence of Arabia (film)|Lawrence of Arabia]] filmed a number of scenes there.
 +
* The [[Citadel Hill, Amman|Citadel hill of Amman]], known as Jabal el Qala, which has been inhabited for centuries, and which is important as a military and religious site. Remains unearthed at the northern and eastern ends of the Citadel possibly date back to the [[Bronze Age]]. The Citadel is home to the Temple of Hercules which is said to have been constructed under the [[Roman Emperor]] [[Marcus Aurelius]] who reigned from 161-180 C.E., and is similar to the [[Temple of Artemis]] in [[Ephesus]].
 +
* Behind the [[Forum (Roman)|Roman forum]] stands a [[Roman theater (Jordan)|Roman theatre]]&mdash;the largest theatre in Jordan&mdash;with room for 6000 spectators. Thought to have been built between 138 and 161 C.E. by the Roman Emperor [[Antoninus Pius]], it is constructed into the side of the mountain and is still used for sports displays and cultural events.
 +
 
 +
Amman is also home to some of the grandest [[mosque]]s in the [[Middle East]], although they compare less favorably to the ones to be found in [[Istanbul]], [[Turkey]]. The newest of these is the enormous [[King Abdullah I Mosque]], built between 1982 and 1989. It is capped by a magnificent blue [[mosaic]] [[dome]] beneath which 3000 Muslims may offer prayer. The most unusual mosque in Amman is the [[Abu Darweesh Mosque]] atop Jabal Ashrafieh, the highest point in the city. It is covered with an extraordinary black and white checkered pattern and is unique to Jordan.
  
−
== Picture Gallery ==
+
{|
−
<gallery>
+
|+
−
Image:Amman_downTown.jpg|2002 picture of Central Amman (downtown)
+
|-
−
Image:Abu Darweesh Mosque.jpg|Abu Darweesh Mosque
+
| valign="top"|
−
Image:Amman City Scape.jpg|Amman cityscape at night
+
[[Image:Abu Darweesh Mosque.jpg|thumb|210px|Abu Darweesh Mosque]]
−
Image:Amman Coptic Church.jpg|A Coptic Church is an example of Amman's religious diversity
+
| valign="top"|
−
Image:Amman2.jpg|A night view of Khelda, West End of Amman
+
[[Image:Amaan-04-King Abdullah Mosque.jpg|thumb|210px|Inside King Abdullah Mosque]]
−
Image:Amman3.jpg|An overview of East Amman.
+
|-
−
Image:Amman4.jpg|Snow in Amman.
+
|}
−
Image:Amman Hotel Regency.jpg|A view from Amman's Regency Hotel
 
−
Image:King Abdullah Mosque at night.jpg|King Abdullah I Mosque at night
 
−
Image:Amaan-04-King Abdullah Mosque.jpg|Inside of King Abdullah I Mosque
 
−
Image:Amaan-28-Arabic Medicine Stalls.jpg|Medicine stalls in downtown Amman
 
−
Image:Amaan-12-The Citadel.jpg|An overview of Amman looking towards the Theater from the Citadel
 
−
Image:JordanGateTowers1.jpg|Jordan gate towers under construction.
 
−
Image:Amman2.jpeg|Amman seen from Citadel hill]]
 
−
Image:Amman1.jpeg|The Roman Theatre
 
−
Image:Amman3.jpeg|Temple of Hercules
 
  
−
</gallery>
+
==Notes==
 +
<references/>
  
 
==References==
 
==References==
−
<references/>
+
* Abu Helwa, Mussallam Fayiz Mussallam. 1990. ''An investigation of Palestinian refugees and their housing in Amman, Jordan.'' Thesis (doctoral)—University of Southampton, 1990. OCLC 156864549
 +
* ''Encyclopaedia Britannica.'' [http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9007193/Amman.htm Amman]  Retrieved June 25, 2008.
 +
* ''LookLex Encyclopaedia.'' Amman.
 +
* Shami, Seteney Khalid, and Jean Hannoyer. 1996. ''Amman: ville et société = the city and its society.'' Beyrouth: Cermoc. ISBN 9782905465078
 +
 
  
−
==External links==
+
[[Category:Geography]]
−
* [http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9007193/Amman.htm Amman] Encyclopaedia Britannica, accessed June 25, 2008.
+
[[Category:Cities]]
−
* [http://lexicorient.com/e.o/amman.htm Amman] LookLex Encyclopaedia, accessed June 25, 2008.
+
[[Category:Middle East]]
−
* [http://www.ammancity.gov.jo/english/relations/r4.asp.htm Administrative Divisions of the City of Amman] Municipality of Greater Amman, accessed June 25, 2008.
 
−
*[http://www.worldarab.net/Architecture/ArchitecturalGallery/tabid/172/Default.aspx?path=Jordan!Amman New Projects in Amman]
 
−
*[http://www.co-ground.com/travel/photos/360_Amman_m.html 360 degrees panorama from the Citadel Hill in central Amman]
 
−
*[http://www.amman.net/index.php Amman Map (Interactive)].
 
−
*[http://www.jordanpic.com/photo/thumbnails.php?album=5 Amman Photo Gallery]
 
−
*[http://www.ianandwendy.com/Jordan/Amman/slideshow.htm Amman Photo Slideshow]
 
−
*[http://wikitravel.org/en/Petra|WikiTravel WikiTravel - Petra]
 
  
 
{{credit|Amman|221089203|}}
 
{{credit|Amman|221089203|}}

Latest revision as of 00:55, 9 January 2023

Ammān
عمّان ʿAmmān
A view of Amman, Jordan from the Citadel atop Jabal al-Qal'a
A view of Amman, Jordan from the Citadel atop Jabal al-Qal'a
Flag of Ammān
Flag
Location of Amman within Jordan.
Location of Amman within Jordan.
Country Flag of Jordan Jordan
Governorate Capital Governorate
Founded 7000 B.C.E.
Municipality 1909
Government
 - Mayor Abdul Halim Kilani
Area
 - City 1,680 km² (648.7 sq mi)
Elevation 777–1,400 m (2,564 ft)
Population (2010)[1][2]
 - Urban 1,919,000
 - Metro 2,125,000
Time zone GMT +2 (UTC)
 - Summer (DST) +3 (UTC)
Area code(s) +962(6)
Website: http://www.ammancity.gov.jo/en/gam/index.asp

Amman, sometimes spelled Ammann (Arabic عمان ʿAmmān), is the capital, largest city, and economic center of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. The city, which has served as both the modern and ancient capital, has a population of nearly 1.04 million, with 2.13 million in the metropolitan area known as Greater Amman. Due to the city’s modern-day prosperity and temperate climate, almost half of Jordan’s population is concentrated in the Amman area.

Amman is a city of contrasts, a unique blend of old and new; its modern buildings blend with the remnants of ancient civilizations. It is believed to be one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. Numerous Biblical references are made to Amman, the Ammonite capital of Rabbath-Ammon.

The city was originally built on seven hills, but it now spans over an area of 19 hills. Its downtown area sits at the bottom of four of its original seven hills, and is the location of most of the city's noteworthy sites. These include the remains of the ancient citadel, the adjoining archaeological museum, and a large, finely preserved Roman amphitheatre, which once seated 6,000. There are additional numerous sites of interest, Biblical, historical, or geological, which are in close proximity to Amman.

The people of Amman are multi-cultural, multi-denominational, well educated and extremely hospitable. The city is the seat of one of the most politically liberal and advanced of the Arab nations, whose leaders have continually been committed to the peace process.

Geography

The name traces back to “Ammon,” the capital of the Ammonites, a Semitic people spoken of in the Bible.

Amman is located in a hilly area of northwestern Jordan. The city was originally built on seven hills, but it now spans over an area of 19 hills (each known as a jabal or "mountain"). The main areas of Amman gain their names from the hills and mountains on whose slopes they lie. Many of the hills are higher than 2,625 feet (800 meters).

Because of the cooling effects of its location on a triangular plateau, Amman enjoys four seasons of excellent weather as compared to other places in the region. Summer temperatures range from 82°F (28°C) to 95°F (35°C), but with very low humidity and frequent breezes. Spring and fall temperatures are extremely pleasant and mild. The winter sees nighttime temperatures frequently near 32°F (0°C), and snow is known in Amman. Total annual rainfall is 10.1 inches (258.3mm). It typically will not rain from June to the beginning of September, with cloudy and blue skies prevailing.

The course of the seasonal river of Wadi Amman and tributaries run through Amman. The land area of the city is approximately 270 square miles (700 square kilometers).

Amman has both a modern and historic touch. Old Amman is filled with souks, or bazaars, small shops, and single family dwellings all crowded together.

West Amman, however, is less crowded and more scenic. Parks and wide boulevards with towering apartments and office buildings dominate the scene. Most of the city's five-star and four-star hotels are located in this area. Villas and expensive apartment complexes are common. Shmeisani, the main economic center of Amman, and Abdoun, the up-scale residential district, are the two main areas of "West Amman," much different from the overly crowded Jabal al-Qalat in Old Amman. Shmeisani and Abdali are the two main financial districts.

History

Temple of Hercules.
Amman seen from Citadel hill.

Archaeological discoveries in 'Ain Ghazal, in eastern Amman, showed evidence of Neolithic settlement and artistic work, dating to around 8500 B.C.E. The earliest remains of fortified settlements belong to the Chalcolithic Age (c. 4000 to 3000 B.C.E.).

In the thirteenth century B.C.E., the city was called Rabbath Ammon by the Ammonites. The “royal city” which King David's general Joab (II Samuel 12:26) took, was probably the acropolis on top of the plateau. King David (1037-967 B.C.E.) sent Uriah the Hittite to his death in battle outside city so that he might marry his wife, Bathsheba (II Samuel 11). David's son Solomon had Ammonite wives, one of whom became the mother of Rehoboam, Solomon's successor.

The city was conquered by the Assyrians, followed by the Persians. Alexander the Great conquered the region in 332 B.C.E. Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the Hellenic ruler of Egypt, rebuilt the city and renamed it Philadelphia. The Seleucids conquered the city in 218 B.C.E., beginning a period of turmoil.

The city became part of the ancient Arab, Semitic, trading kingdom, the Nabataean, until 63 C.E., when Philadelphia came under Roman control and joined the Decapolis. In 106 C.E. it was included in the Roman province of Arabia and rebuilt.

In 326 C.E., Christianity became the religion of the empire and Philadelphia became the seat of a bishopric during the beginning of the Byzantine era. One of the churches of this period can be seen on the city's Citadel.

Philadelphia was renamed Amman during control of the Ghassanians, a group of South Arabian Christian tribes who migrated from Yemen around 250 C.E. With the rise of Islam, Arab general Yazid ibn Abi Sufy took Amman in 635 C.E. The city flourished under the Caliphates (with nearby capital) of the Umayyads (in Damascus) and the Abbasids (in Baghdad).

Earthquakes destroyed the city, which by 1300 appeared to have become almost deserted. It remained a small village and a pile of ruins until 1878, when the Ottoman Turks brought in Circassian refugees from Russia.

The tide changed when the Ottoman Sultan decided to build the Hejaz railway, linking Damascus and Medina, facilitating both the annual hajj pilgrimage and permanent trade, putting Amman, a major station, back on the commercial map.

After World War I (1914-1918), Transjordan became part of the Palestine Mandate. In 1921, Britain established a protected emirate of Transjordan, ruled by Abdullah I. In 1921, Abdullah I chose Amman as seat of government for his newly-created state, and later as the capital of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan. As there was no palatial building, he started his reign from the railway station, with his office in a train car.

Amman remained a small city until 1948, when the population expanded considerably due to an influx of Palestinian refugees from what became Israel after the first Arab-Israeli war in 1948–1949. Amman has developed rapidly since 1952 under the leadership of two Hashemite Kings, Hussein I of Jordan and Abdullah II of Jordan.

After the Six-Day War of 1967, when Jordan lost all territory west of the Jordan River to Israel, a second and larger wave of refugees arrived. In 1970, Amman was the site of clashes between the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and the Jordanian army. Everything around the Royal Palace sustained heavy damage from shelling. Most of Amman suffered great damage from PLO rockets and the Jordanian army's shells.

A third wave of Palestinian and Jordanian and Southeast Asian refugees - working as domestic workers - arrived in Amman from Kuwait after the Gulf War of 1991.

The first wave of Iraqi refugees settled in the city after the first Gulf War, with a second wave also arriving after the 2003 invasion of Iraq. New construction within the city increased dramatically with new districts of the city being founded, particularly in West Amman, following this flood of refugees.

On November 9, 2005, coordinated explosions rocked three hotels in Amman. The Islamist organization, al-Qaeda, claimed responsibility, and Jordanian terrorist leader, Abu Musab al-Zarqawi, who has since been killed, was also believed responsible.

A lone gunman attacked Western tourists during a guided trip to the downtown Roman Theatre in September 2006, shooting five of them, one fatally. The man was immediately caught, and claimed to have acted in response to the fighting between Israel and Lebanon during the prior months.

Administration

Administratively, Jordan is divided into 12 governorates, each headed by a governor appointed by the king. They are the sole authorities for all government departments and development projects in their respective areas. The governorates are subdivided into approximately 52 subdistricts. The governorates are: Ajlun, Amman, Aqaba, Balqa, Irbid, Jerash, Kerak, Ma'an, Madaba, Mafraq, Tafilah, Zarqa.

The Amman Governorate, officially known as Muhafazat al-Asima (Arabic محافظة العاصمة, English translation: The Capital Governorate), is further divided into 20 regions. Amman City is the governorate's capital city, and serves as Jordan's national capital as well.

Economy

The old downtown section of Amman.

Amman is a regional hub, and is Jordan's chief commercial, financial, and international trade center. A construction boom has brought massive economic growth.

Projects include: The Abdali Downtown project, which consists of stores, malls, restaurants, residential and office buildings, a new library and performing arts center, landscaping, man made canals and water fountains; Bonyan city, which consists of five new skyscrapers for apartments and offices; the Jordan Gate Towers, which are two identical skyscrapers to house offices; Amman Financial Tower, consisting of 56 floors; the Limitless Towers, which are two identical 65 floor buildings connected by a pedestrian walkway that will house the world's highest swimming pool; the Andalucian Village, which includes over 600 villas, and consists of spas, fitness and health centers, swimming pools, and a recreation area; and a massive new Royal Jordanian headquarters.

Phosphate extraction and petroleum refining are the most significant industries. Other important industries include food and tobacco processing, manufacture of textiles, paper, plastics and metal products.

Its airport, Queen Alia International Airport, is the hub of the national carrier, Royal Jordanian, which is a major airline in the region. The airport has three terminals, two passenger and one cargo, and in 2007 handled between 4 to 5 million passengers.

The Hejaz railway, built in the early 20th century, was used primarily for pilgrims to reach the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, but now the rail line is basically used by tourists. Amman has an extensive highway system that links every part of the city to one another. Its highways also link nearby cities such as Zarqa and Madaba.

Demographics

A Coptic Church.
King Abdullah Mosque at night

The population was 2,125,400 in 2005. Arabs make up 98 percent of the population, Circassians make up one percent, and Chechens, Armenians, and Kurds make up the remaining one percent.

The official language is Arabic. English is used widely in commerce and government and among educated people. Arabic and English must be taught at public and private schools, while French may be taught at some schools but is not obligatory.

Amman is home to many diverse religious sects making up the two primary religions of Jordan, Islam and Christianity. Numerous mosques and churches dot the capital. The most famous mosque in Amman is the King Abduallah I Mosque which can house nearly 3,000 people.

Amman is the location of the University of Jordan, founded in 1962, and several museums and libraries, including the National Library.

Places of interest

Amman is conveniently located for many tourist attractions, including:

  • The Baptism Site (Al-Maghtas in Arabic) on the Jordan River where Jesus is believed to have been baptized by John the Baptist
  • Mount Nebo where, according to the Bible, Moses is said to have died
  • The unique ultra saline waters of the Dead Sea, home to many first-rate resorts
  • Jerash, a city of the Decapolis and considered one of the most important and best preserved Roman cities in the Near East
  • The Hellenistic ruin of Qasr al Abd, in the near-by valley of Wadi Al Seer
  • Petra, two hours from Aqaba, is one of the most breathtaking places in the world (one of the seven wonders of the world)
  • The beaches at Aqaba, a shipping port and Jordan's only access to the Red Sea
  • The unique geological rock formations of Wadi Rum. The colorful rocks are best viewed at sunset and are located a half hour away from Petra. Wadi Rum has connections with T. E. Lawrence; consequently the movie Lawrence of Arabia filmed a number of scenes there.
  • The Citadel hill of Amman, known as Jabal el Qala, which has been inhabited for centuries, and which is important as a military and religious site. Remains unearthed at the northern and eastern ends of the Citadel possibly date back to the Bronze Age. The Citadel is home to the Temple of Hercules which is said to have been constructed under the Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius who reigned from 161-180 C.E., and is similar to the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus.
  • Behind the Roman forum stands a Roman theatre—the largest theatre in Jordan—with room for 6000 spectators. Thought to have been built between 138 and 161 C.E. by the Roman Emperor Antoninus Pius, it is constructed into the side of the mountain and is still used for sports displays and cultural events.

Amman is also home to some of the grandest mosques in the Middle East, although they compare less favorably to the ones to be found in Istanbul, Turkey. The newest of these is the enormous King Abdullah I Mosque, built between 1982 and 1989. It is capped by a magnificent blue mosaic dome beneath which 3000 Muslims may offer prayer. The most unusual mosque in Amman is the Abu Darweesh Mosque atop Jabal Ashrafieh, the highest point in the city. It is covered with an extraordinary black and white checkered pattern and is unique to Jordan.

Abu Darweesh Mosque
Inside King Abdullah Mosque

Notes

  1. ↑ Department of Statistics- Jordan. Dos.gov.jo.
  2. ↑ Amman population in 2011. True Knowledge. Retrieved March 5, 2012.

References
ISBN links support NWE through referral fees

  • Abu Helwa, Mussallam Fayiz Mussallam. 1990. An investigation of Palestinian refugees and their housing in Amman, Jordan. Thesis (doctoral)—University of Southampton, 1990. OCLC 156864549
  • Encyclopaedia Britannica. Amman Retrieved June 25, 2008.
  • LookLex Encyclopaedia. Amman.
  • Shami, Seteney Khalid, and Jean Hannoyer. 1996. Amman: ville et société = the city and its society. Beyrouth: Cermoc. ISBN 9782905465078

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