Dar Al-Anda Art Gallery | Amman

Information

Landmark: Dar Al-Anda Art Gallery
City: Amman
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Dar Al-Anda Art Gallery, Amman, Jordan, Asia

Dar Al-Anda Art Gallery is a cultural center and contemporary art space located in the Jabal Al-Weibdeh district of Amman, Jordan. It occupies two restored residential villas that function as a venue for Middle Eastern fine arts and regional musical performances.

Visual Characteristics

The gallery is housed in two 1930s-era heritage villas built primarily from local yellow limestone. The main building features traditional Levantine architectural elements, including high ceilings, pointed arches, and thick masonry walls. An expansive paved terrace and rooftop area provide an unobstructed line of sight toward the Amman Citadel and the Roman Temple of Hercules.

Location & Access Logistics

The site is located at 3 Dirar Ben Al-Azwar Street in Jabal Al-Weibdeh. It is situated approximately 2 kilometers northwest of the downtown Al-Balad area. Access is primarily via private vehicle or taxi, as street parking is limited to narrow adjacent residential roads. Public transport users can take a local bus to the Abdali area and walk approximately 500 meters south to the gallery entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Founded in 1998 by Majdoline Al-Ghazawi Al-Ghoul, the gallery was originally located in Um Uthaina before relocating to its current historic site. The villas were officially registered with the municipality in 1939, though local records suggest construction began earlier in the decade. The structures underwent a multi-year restoration to convert the abandoned residential spaces into a multi-functional art facility.

Key Highlights & Activities

The gallery displays a permanent collection of modern Middle Eastern art, including works by Ismail Fattah and Dia Azzawi. Visitors can attend rotating solo and group exhibitions, musical concerts, and literary evenings. The rooftop terrace is accessible for panoramic viewing of the city's seven hills and archaeological ruins.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The facility includes indoor and outdoor exhibition spaces, public restrooms, and a gift shop featuring locally crafted items. While there is no dedicated on-site parking lot, the premises are equipped with 4G/5G cellular signals. The gallery often requires prior appointments for private viewings or consultations.

Best Time to Visit

The best time for photography from the terrace is late afternoon when the sun illuminates the Citadel across the valley. The gallery is most accessible during spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) when the outdoor sculpture gardens are in use. Weekdays offer a lower visitor density compared to weekend cultural events.

Facts & Legends

The name "Dar Al-Anda" is derived from an ancient Arabic term appearing in pre-Islamic poetry; "Anda" is a variation of "Nada" (dew), symbolizing giving and prosperity. Local urban legends claim the villas were used for clandestine meetings during the mid-20th century due to their strategic vantage point overlooking the city center.