Umm Qais

Umm Qais

Umm Qais was once a flourishing Roman city called Gadara. Nowadays, the area boasts spectacular ruins that attract thousands of tourists every year. Because of its hilltop position, Umm Qais is a prime location for taking in the spectacular views of the Jordan Valley. There are two ancient theaters and many other Roman sites in the area. The Bible mentions Umm Qais as the place where Jesus performed the Gadarene Swine miracle. The ancient city of Gadara was well-positioned to trade between Syria and Palestine. It was known for attracting scholars, writers and artists and became a popular Roman holiday site. In 63 B.C., the city became part of the Decapolis League, and in 31 B.C., the city became a reward for King Herod the Great. There are many things worth visiting in the area. The Western Theatre is a magnificent construction located on the main Roman road that takes visitors across an Ottoman village. With a capacity of three thousand visitors, the theater resembles the Colosseum. The Roman tombs are located on the western edge of Umm Qais and can be recognized by the basalt doorway. The Basilica Terrace is a large square that contains a small Byzantine church. The church is believed to have been built in the 6th century. It was largely destroyed by an earthquake in the 8th century. Nowadays, the ruins of the church, the columns, and the vaulted rooms that were once a series of Byzantine shops can be explored by visitors and history enthusiasts alike. These ancient remnants offer a fascinating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the region.