Prophet Joshua's Tomb | Amman

The Tomb of Prophet Joshua (Nabi Yusha) is a religious complex and shrine located on a mountain peak in the Salt district of Jordan. It is a significant pilgrimage site dedicated to Joshua, the successor to Moses in Islamic and biblical tradition.

Visual Characteristics

The site comprises a modern mosque and an adjacent rectangular shrine room constructed from local cream-colored limestone. The interior is dominated by a central cenotaph (symbolic tomb) covered in green velvet fabric, measuring an unusual length of approximately 6 meters. The architectural style follows a traditional Levantine religious pattern with pointed arches, a small dome, and a single minaret, while the exterior terrace is paved in stone to accommodate crowds.

Location & Access Logistics

The shrine is located atop Mount Nebo (Jabal An-Nabi Yusha) in the Balqa Highland, approximately 25 kilometers west of Amman and 4 kilometers from the city of Salt. Access is via the As-Salt - Al-Nabi Yusha Road, which consists of steep, winding mountain terrain. Public transportation to the peak is non-existent; visitors must use private vehicles or hire taxis from Salt. Free gravel parking is available at the entrance of the mosque complex.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The current structure was reconstructed and expanded in 2004 during the reign of King Abdullah II as part of a national initiative to renovate the tombs of the prophets. While the physical building is contemporary, the site has been recognized for centuries as a sacred location. Geologically, the site sits on a high limestone ridge overlooking the Jordan Valley and the Dead Sea.

Key Highlights & Activities

Religious visitation and prayer are the primary activities within the mosque and shrine room. The outdoor observation deck provides a panoramic view of the Jordan Valley, the West Bank, and, on clear days, the city of Jerusalem. Photography of the landscape is common, though photography inside the tomb room is generally restricted to maintain the sanctity of the space.

Infrastructure & Amenities

The complex includes separate prayer halls for men and women, ablution areas, and restrooms. There is a small on-site library and a religious office. Shade is provided by the mosque porticos and a few planted trees in the courtyard. Cellular signal (4G) is functional but can be intermittent due to the high elevation and mountainous topography. Basic snack kiosks are located near the parking area.

Best Time to Visit

The site is most accessible during the spring (March to May) when temperatures are mild and visibility is highest for the Jordan Valley views. Early morning (08:00–10:00) is the best time for photography and to avoid the midday heat. The shrine is busiest on Fridays during the midday prayer.

Facts & Legends

Local tradition dictates the 6-meter length of the tomb as a symbol of the prophet's perceived spiritual stature rather than his physical height. A verified geographical fact is that the shrine sits at an elevation of approximately 1,100 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest points in the Balqa region and a strategic lookout point historically.

Nearby Landmarks

Tomb of Prophet Shuaib – 4.5km Southwest

Salt Old City (As-Salt Heritage Trail) – 3.8km Southeast

Salt Archaeological Museum – 4.1km Southeast

Al-Khader Church – 4.2km Southeast

Ghor al-Kibid – 5.0km West