Madaba

Madaba, known as the 'City of Mosaics,' is famous for its spectacular Byzantine and Umayyad mosaics, particularly the renowned 6th-century Madaba Map, a floor mosaic in the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. This ancient map is the oldest surviving cartographic depiction of the Holy Land and Jerusalem. Beyond this famous attraction, Madaba offers visitors a charming small-town atmosphere with excellent local restaurants, vibrant markets, and several other significant mosaic collections and archaeological sites that showcase Jordan's rich Christian heritage.

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Key Information

Best Time to Visit: Spring (March-May) and Autumn (September-November) for pleasant temperatures

How to Get There: Madaba is located about 30 km southwest of Amman. You can reach it by rental car, taxi, or public bus from Amman's South Bus Station (approximately 45 minutes drive).

Top Attractions in Madaba

St. George's Church and the Madaba Map
Archaeological Park
Apostles Church
Madaba Museum
Shrine of the Beheading of John the Baptist
Madaba Arts and Handicrafts Center
Madaba Institute for Mosaic Art and Restoration

Things to Do in Madaba

Visit St. George's Church to see the famous Madaba Map
Explore the Archaeological Park with its collection of Byzantine mosaics
Climb the bell tower at the Shrine of the Beheading of John the Baptist for panoramic views
Shop for handmade mosaics and souvenirs
Take a mosaic-making workshop
Sample local Jordanian cuisine at family-run restaurants
Use Madaba as a base to visit nearby Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea

Travel Tips for Madaba

Wear modest clothing when visiting churches and religious sites
Consider hiring a local guide to explain the historical significance of the mosaics
Combine your visit with nearby Mount Nebo for a full day trip
Many shops offer mosaic-making demonstrations
The town is small and walkable, so a half-day visit is sufficient for the main attractions