Pella | Irbid

Pella is an expansive archaeological site located in the northern Jordan Valley, approximately 5 kilometers east of the Jordan River. It represents one of the most historically significant cities of the Decapolis, situated near the modern village of Tabaqat Fahl.

Visual Characteristics

The site consists of a large central tell and surrounding hillsides featuring limestone and basalt ruins. Structures include the remains of Roman civic buildings, Byzantine churches with standing columns, and a Bronze Age temple complex. The landscape is characterized by steep slopes, terraced stone foundations, and dense spring vegetation in the surrounding Wadi Jirm.

Location & Access Logistics

The ruins are located off the Jordan Valley Highway (Route 65), approximately 90 kilometers north of Amman and 30 kilometers south of Lake Tiberias. Visitors can reach the site via private vehicle or by taking a bus from Amman's North Bus Station to Mashare, followed by a short taxi ride to Tabaqat Fahl. A small parking area is available near the Pella Rest House.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Pella has been continuously inhabited for over 6,000 years, with significant development during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. It served as a refuge for early Christians fleeing Jerusalem in the 1st century AD. Geologically, the site is positioned on the eastern edge of the Jordan Rift Valley, characterized by sedimentary limestone and proximity to natural freshwater springs.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can explore the 1st-century Roman Odeon and the large Byzantine West Church. Hiking trails lead to the summit of Tell el-Husn, providing views of the Jordan Valley. Archaeological observation of the ongoing excavations at the Bronze and Iron Age temple sites is possible from designated paths.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The Pella Rest House provides a restaurant and restrooms overlooking the ruins. Shade is limited throughout the archaeological park, and sturdy footwear is required for the uneven terrain. 4G cellular signal is generally available across the site; however, there are no food vendors within the actual ruin fields.

Best Time to Visit

The optimal months for visiting are February through April when the valley is green and temperatures are moderate. Photography is best during early morning (07:00 to 09:00) to capture the depth of the valley without harsh shadows. The site remains open daily from 08:00 until sunset.

Facts & Legends

Pella is historically recognized as the site where the early Christian community of Jerusalem sought safety during the Great Jewish Revolt in 70 AD. A local archaeological "secret" is the presence of a massive Stone Age wall on the lower slopes, which predates the Roman ruins by several millennia.

Nearby Landmarks

Wadi Jirm (0.2km West)

Tell el-Husn (0.4km South)

Church of the Virgin Mary (0.3km North)

Roman Odeon (0.1km West)