
Weird & Unusual Attractions in Ar Ruşayfah, Az Zarqā’, Jordan
1. Petra's Monastery (Al-Deir)
A red-rose colored rock monastery in Ar Ruşayfah, boasting intricate carvings and architectural wonders.
- Carved Facade: Features a stunning facade with elaborate carvings depicting scenes from Greek mythology.
- Isolated Location: Located at the furthest reach of the Petra site, offering a serene and secluded atmosphere.
- Night Light Show: Illuminated during Petra's famous night-time light show, adding an ethereal beauty to its already majestic appearance.
2. Labyrinthine Siq
A narrow gorge with towering walls, leading to the spectacular Al-Khazneh at Petra.
- Narrow Passage: Stretches for over a kilometer, offering an unforgettable walk through history.
- Limestone Formations: Features unique limestone formations, including the famous Seven Sorrows, created by wind and water erosion over millennia.
- Historical Inscriptions: Holds many inscriptions and graffiti from ancient travelers, giving a glimpse into their experiences.
3. Beidha Archaeological Site
An early Bronze Age settlement site with unique circular houses.
- Circular Houses: Unique design, believed to have been used for both residential and ceremonial purposes.
- Preservation: Well-preserved ruins offer a rare insight into early human civilization in the region.
- Eco-Friendly Excavation: Excavations are conducted using eco-friendly methods, preserving the site for future generations to explore.
4. Wadi Rum's Seven Pillars of Wisdom
A rock formation resembling seven pillars in the vast desert landscape of Wadi Rum.
- Nomadic History: Considered a sacred site by local Bedouin tribes, steeped in stories and legends.
- Stargazing Opportunities: Located within the Wadi Rum Protected Area, providing excellent opportunities for stargazing.
- Desert Safari Adventures: Can be reached via desert safari adventures, offering an authentic Bedouin experience.
5. Wadi Al-Hasa Mud City
A unique settlement made entirely of mud-brick structures.
- Mud-Brick Architecture: Construction methods pass down through generations, showcasing traditional skills.
- Eco-Friendly Building Material: Mud-bricks are a sustainable and eco-friendly building material, blending harmoniously with the environment.
- Desert Oasis: Surrounded by palm trees and springs, offering a tranquil oasis in the desert.
6. Azraq Wetland Reserve
A wetland area home to numerous migratory bird species.
- Migratory Birds: Serves as a resting spot for over 200 bird species during their migrations.
- Wildlife Conservation: Supports conservation efforts for endangered species such as the Syrian Wild Ass and Spiny-tailed Lizard.
- Nature Walks: Offers guided nature walks, providing opportunities to observe wildlife up close.
7. Karak Castle Ruins
An ancient Crusader castle with a rich history.
- Crusader History: Features a mix of Crusader, Islamic, and Ottoman architectural styles.
- Battle of Montgisard: Site of the famous Battle of Montgisard, where Saladin defeated the Crusaders in 1187.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
8. Khirbet al-Mazar Archaeological Site
An ancient Nabatean settlement with a unique circular tower.
- Circular Tower: The only known circular watchtower in Nabatean architecture.
- Preservation: Remains well-preserved, providing a unique insight into ancient Nabatean culture.
- Archaeological Finds: Excavations have uncovered pottery, coins, and other artifacts dating back to the Hellenistic period.
9. Dana Biosphere Reserve
A protected area with diverse landscapes, including rugged mountains and lush valleys.
- Biodiversity: Home to a variety of flora and fauna, many of which are endemic to the region.
- Hiking Trails: Features numerous hiking trails, offering opportunities for exploration and wildlife observation.
- Eco-Lodges: Offers eco-lodges, providing sustainable accommodation options within the reserve.
10. Aqaba Desert Park
A desert park featuring a unique geological phenomenon known as 'Fossil Dunes'.
- Fossil Dunes: Features fossilized sand dunes, formed over 200 million years ago.
- Desert Flora and Fauna: Home to various desert flora and fauna, including the Arabian Sand Cat.
- Night Sky Observatory: Features a night sky observatory, offering opportunities for stargazing.
11. Al-Karak Medieval Castle
A medieval castle with a mix of Islamic and Crusader architectural styles.
- Islamic and Crusader Architecture: Features both Islamic and Crusader architectural elements, showcasing the region's rich history.
- Battle of Al-Karak: Site of the Battle of Al-Karak in 1187, where Saladin defeated the Crusaders.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
12. Al-Maghtas Baptism Site
The traditional site where Jesus is believed to have been baptized by John the Baptist.
- Religious Significance: Holds great religious significance for Christians around the world.
- Historical Inscriptions: Features inscriptions from early Christian pilgrims who visited the site.
- Nearby Attractions: Located near other religious sites, such as Bethany beyond the Jordan and Mount Nebo.
13. Madaba Mosaic Map Church
A Byzantine church featuring a mosaic map of ancient Palestine.
- Mosaic Map: Features an intricate mosaic map depicting the Holy Land and Jerusalem.
- Historical Importance: Considered one of the most significant Byzantine-era mosaics in the world.
- Art Conservation: Undergoing ongoing art conservation efforts to preserve this priceless artwork.
14. Mount Nebo
The traditional burial place of Moses, offering panoramic views of the Holy Land.
- Biblical Significance: Holds great biblical significance as the traditional site where Moses died.
- Panoramic Views: Offers stunning panoramic views of the Holy Land, including Jericho, the Dead Sea, and Bethlehem.
- Monastery Ruins: Features ancient monastery ruins, offering insights into early Christian monasticism.
15. Wadi Rum's Rock Bridges
Natural sandstone arches formed by wind and water erosion.
- Geological Formations: Created by wind and water erosion over thousands of years, showcasing the power of nature.
- Climbing Opportunities: Offer climbing opportunities for adventure seekers, with varying levels of difficulty.
- Desert Safari Adventures: Can be reached via desert safari adventures, offering an authentic Bedouin experience.