Kan Zaman | Amman

Information

Landmark: Kan Zaman
City: Amman
Country: Jordan
Continent: Asia

Kan Zaman, Amman, Jordan, Asia

Kan Zaman is a restored 19th-century Ottoman agricultural estate turned into a heritage tourist village and restaurant. It is located on the outskirts of Amman and serves as a cultural hub for traditional Jordanian craftsmanship and cuisine.

Visual Characteristics

The site is a walled complex constructed from local golden-hued limestone with thick stone walls and vaulted chambers typical of Ottoman-era rural estates. The architectural style focuses on the adaptive reuse of an old caravanserai and farmstead. Notable features include high-vaulted ceilings, stone archways, and rough-plastered surfaces. The structures are primarily low-rise, maintaining the horizontal profile of a traditional fortified village.

Location & Access Logistics

Kan Zaman is situated south of Amman in the Al-Yadoudeh area.

Road Access: Located on Queen Alia Airport Road. Take Exit 4W (Farah Abu Jaber Street) toward Mirage Village and Hamed Jaber Street.

Parking: A dedicated on-site parking area is available for diners and visitors.

Transport: The site is approximately a 20-30 minute drive from central Amman. While yellow taxis can reach the site, private vehicles or pre-arranged tour transfers are the most efficient logistics due to its suburban location.

Historical Origin

The estate dates back to the late 19th century (Ottoman period) when it served as the focal point of the Khirbet Abu Jaber agricultural settlement. Originally used as a warehouse for grain and livestock stables, it was abandoned before being renovated in the late 20th century. The purpose of its restoration was to preserve Jordanian rural heritage and stimulate local development through tourism.

Key Highlights & Activities

Dining: The central restaurant specializes in traditional "Mezze" and authentic Jordanian/Oriental cuisine, often accompanied by live music and dancing in the evenings.

Craftsmanship: The "Arti Zaman" section includes workshops where visitors can observe glass blowing, woodcarving, and traditional weaving.

Shopping: A small souk (market) on-site sells local handicrafts, spices, fabrics, and traditional clothing.

Recreation: The village grounds offer horse rides and areas for relaxing with traditional coffee, mint tea, and argheela (shisha).

Infrastructure & Amenities

Facilities: Modernized restrooms are integrated into the stone structures. The complex includes banqueting halls and meeting spaces for events.

Environment: The thick stone walls and vaulted architecture provide natural cooling, supplemented by outdoor shaded seating areas and courtyards.

Connectivity: 5G cellular coverage is available, and many tour packages include on-board Wi-Fi for visitors.

Food: Plentiful local food options are available, including freshly baked bread, hummus, and mixed grill platters.

Best Time to Visit

The restaurant typically operates daily from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM. Friday mornings/afternoons are particularly popular among locals for traditional breakfasts. Evening visits are recommended for those seeking a lively atmosphere with live entertainment.

Facts & Legends

The name "Kan Zaman" translates to "Once Upon a Time," reflecting its goal of transporting visitors to pre-modern Jordan. A unique feature of the renovation is that the original layout of the men's quarters and animal stables was strictly preserved to maintain the historical integrity of the estate's floor plan.