Byzantine Church | Amman

Information

Landmark: Byzantine Church
City: Amman
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Byzantine Church, Amman, Jordan, Asia

The Byzantine Church is a 6th-century basilica located on the central plateau of the Amman Citadel. It stands as a significant remnant of the city's Christian history during the Byzantine administration of Philadelphia (modern-day Amman).

Visual Characteristics

The church follows a traditional basilica plan with a central nave and two side aisles. It is characterized by its remaining Corinthian columns, many of which were repurposed from earlier Roman structures. The most notable visual elements are the surviving floor mosaics, which feature geometric patterns and stylized representations of local flora and fauna, though many are now covered for preservation.

Location & Access Logistics

The church is situated in the central sector of the Amman Citadel, positioned between the Temple of Hercules to the south and the Umayyad Palace to the north. Access is included in the general Citadel entry ticket. It is a 5-minute walk from the main entrance and the Jordan Archaeological Museum.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Constructed during the reign of Emperor Justinian (c. 550–560 AD), the church was the spiritual center of the Citadel during the peak of the Byzantine era. Like many structures on the hill, it was built using local limestone and materials salvaged from the nearby Roman temples. The building was heavily damaged during the 749 AD earthquake and was never fully restored to its original ecclesiastical function.

Key Highlights & Activities

Corinthian Colonades: Several upright and fallen pillars that define the original boundaries of the nave.

Mosaics: Intricate 6th-century tile work visible in the side aisles and near the apse.

The Apse: The semi-circular eastern end of the church, which remains partially standing.

Architectural Spolia: Evidence of Roman stone blocks and capitals integrated into the Byzantine masonry.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The church is an open-air archaeological site. Raised wooden walkways have been installed in sections to protect the mosaic floors while allowing visitor access. Informational plaques provided by the Department of Antiquities offer historical context in Arabic and English. Public facilities are located at the Citadel visitor center nearby.

Best Time to Visit

Morning light (08:00–10:00) is optimal for viewing the details of the stone carvings and mosaics without the harsh glare of the midday sun. The site is open daily in accordance with Citadel hours (typically 08:00–18:00).

Facts & Legends

A verified architectural detail is that the church was built directly over a paved Roman street, using the existing infrastructure as a foundation. Local lore suggests that the church was once connected to a larger complex of monastic dwellings that covered the central portion of the hill before the Umayyad expansion.