Jerash, Dec. 24 (Petra) – Jerash Archaeological Museum is one of the Kingdom’s most prominent cultural landmarks for the rare historical evidence it houses documenting the succession of civilizations that the city of Jerash has witnessed over thousands of years, according to museum director Mohammad Shalabi.

Shalabi told the Jordan News Agency (Petra) that the museum is the oldest archaeological museum established in the Kingdom, with the beginnings of its establishment dating back to 1923, coinciding with the founding of the Department of Antiquities.

He said the museum’s first headquarters was in one of the archaeological vaults inside the Temple of Artemis on the northern side of the Jerash archaeological site, before it was later moved to the current building, which had been used as a tourist rest house and was rehabilitated and converted into an official museum in 1985.

Shalabi added the museum houses about 600 diverse artifacts, including minted coins and pottery and glass pieces, in addition to stone carvings and statues. He explained that these collections represent historical periods that passed through the city, starting from the Bronze and Iron Ages, through the classical Roman and Byzantine periods, and extending to the Umayyad and Abbasid Islamic eras.

He stressed that the importance of the Jerash Archaeological Museum is evident in its tourism, scientific and social dimensions, as it constitutes a main destination for tourists to learn about the city’s history in a focused manner and serves as an important scientific reference for researchers and scholars, alongside its role in strengthening national identity and spreading archaeological awareness among members of the local community and students.

Shalabi said the museum contributes to highlighting the civilizational value of the city of Jerash and reflects the depth and diversity of Jordanian history, calling for encouraging visits by citizens and tourists alike.

//Petra// AF