50 Most Interesting Facts About Jordan

Many people associate Jordan with the ancient city of Petra, the salty waters of the Dead Sea, and vast desert landscapes. However, there is much more to this Middle Eastern gem than meets the eye. Jordan is a land of rich history, diverse culture, and surprising details that often go unnoticed. In this article, you will discover the 50 most interesting facts about Jordan that reveal the depth and uniqueness of this fascinating country.

From Roman ruins and biblical sites to incredible natural wonders and unforgettable culinary traditions, these 50 most interesting facts about Jordan will give you a fresh perspective. 

Let us explore the 50 most interesting facts about Jordan and uncover what makes it truly special.

Geography & Environment

1. Geography:Fact about Jordan is about 89,000 square kilometers (34,500 square miles), making it one of the smaller countries in the Middle East.
2. Borders: Jordan shares borders with six countries: Syria, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Israel, and the West Bank.
3. Climate: Jordan experiences a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters. The country also has desert areas in the south and east.
4. Geological Wonders: Jordan is part of the African Rift Valley, home to the lowest point on Earth – the Dead Sea, which lies 427 meters (1,401 feet) below sea level.
5. Dead Sea: The Dead Sea is one of the saltiest bodies of water in the world, with a salinity of about 33%, making it impossible to sink.
6. Dead Sea Minerals: The minerals in the Dead Sea mud are known for their therapeutic properties, particularly for skin conditions.
7. Jordan River: The Jordan River forms the border between Jordan and Israel, flowing southward and ending at the Dead Sea.
8. Azraq Wetlands: Azraq is a rare wetland in the desert, attracting numerous bird species, particularly during migration.

1. Jabal Umm al Dami: The highest point in Jordan, located at 1,854 meters (6,050 feet) in southern Jordan.
2. Wildlife in Jordan: Despite its desert landscapes, Jordan is home to a variety of wildlife, including the endangered Arabian Oryx and Nubian ibex.

Culture & Society

1. Population: Jordan has a population of about 10 million people, with most living in the northern part of the country and in Amman.
2. Diverse Population: Around 60% of the population is of Palestinian origin, with many having been displaced in the mid-20th century.
3. Religion: The majority of Jordanians (93%) are Sunni Muslims, with around 6% being Christians.
4. Language: The official language of Jordan is Arabic, though English is widely spoken, especially in business and education.
5. Jordanian Hospitality: Fact about Jordanians are known for their warm hospitality and are generally very welcoming to visitors.
6. Bedouin Culture: The Bedouin tribes of Jordan have a rich cultural history and have traditionally been nomadic herders.
7. Jordan’s Refugees: Jordan has a long history of accepting refugees, including Palestinians, Iraqis, and Syrians, due to its location in the Middle East.
8. King Abdullah II Fund for Development: This fund supports numerous development projects throughout Jordan, focusing on education, healthcare, and poverty alleviation.
9. Jordanian Arts: Jordan has a thriving arts scene, with contemporary artists and musicians gaining recognition both locally and internationally.

History & Heritage

1. Hashemite Monarchy: The King of Jordan, Abdullah II, is a member of the Hashemite family, which traces its lineage to the Prophet Muhammad.
2. Lawrence of Arabia: Wadi Rum, a desert in southern Jordan, was famously visited by Lawrence of Arabia and is a popular filming location.
3. Petra: Petra, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a vast archaeological complex famous for its rock-cut architecture and water conduit system.

1. Jerash Ruins: The ancient city of Jerash is home to some of the most well-preserved Roman ruins in the world.
2. Amman’s History: Amman, the capital, was once known as Philadelphia during the Roman Empire.
3. Roman Baths: The Roman Baths in Amman offer insight into ancient Jordanian culture and life during Roman rule.
4. Qasr Kharana: One of Jordan’s desert castles, built by the Umayyads in the 8th century, and still standing today.
5. Al-Karak Castle: This 12th-century Crusader castle in southern Jordan is one of the largest and most impressive in the region.
6. Mount Nebo: This biblical site is where Moses is believed to have seen the Promised Land before his death.
7. Al-Maghtas: Al-Maghtas, located near the Jordan River, is the site where many believe Jesus was baptized.

Tourism & Landmarks

1. Petra Monastery: Hiking up to the Petra Monastery is one of the most breathtaking experiences in Jordan.
2. Wadi Rum: Known as the Valley of the Moon, Wadi Rum is famous for its unique sandstone mountains and desert scenery.
3. King’s Highway: The ancient route that stretches from Amman to Aqaba, offering spectacular views and passing through many historic sites.
4. Aqaba: Jordan’s only port city on the Red Sea, Aqaba is a popular destination for diving and water sports.
5. Roman Theater: The Roman Theater in Amman, built during the 2nd century AD, is a stunning piece of Roman architecture still used for performances.
6. Cycling Challenges: Cycling in Jordan can be challenging, especially due to the country’s hilly terrain and the occasional need for a police escort.
7. Wadi Rum: Wadi Rum is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting adventure enthusiasts and hikers.
8. Qasr Al-Mshatta: A historical Umayyad palace located near Amman, showcasing early Islamic architecture.

Food & Cuisine

1. Jordanian Cuisine: Mansaf is the national dish, consisting of lamb cooked in a sauce made from dried yogurt, served with rice or bulgur.
2. Falafel: Jordan is known for its delicious falafel, particularly from street vendors and small eateries.

1. Kanafeh: A traditional Levantine dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and often layered with cheese.

Economy & Natural Resources

1. Oil Shale: Jordan has significant deposits of oil shale, though it does not produce much oil.
2. Natural Gas: Jordan produces a small amount of natural gas used for electricity generation, much of it coming from Israel today.
3. Tourism: Jordan attracts millions of tourists every year due to its historical sites, natural wonders, and vibrant culture.
4. Jordan’s Education: Jordan places a strong emphasis on education, with a literacy rate of over 98%.

Notable Figures

1. King Hussein: King Hussein of Jordan, who ruled from 1952 to 1999, was a pivotal figure in Middle Eastern diplomacy.
2. King Abdullah II: The current King of Jordan, Abdullah II, has played an important role in modernizing Jordan and strengthening its position in the region.

1. Queen Rania: Advocate for education, children’s rights, and women’s empowerment.
2. King Hussein: Signed the Israel-Jordan peace treaty in 1994.
3. Fawzi al-Mulki: Jordan’s first Prime Minister post-independence.
4. Tareq Al Nasser: Headed Jordan’s General Intelligence Directorate, ensuring national security.

Final Thought:

Jordan is a country where ancient history meets natural wonder, and tradition blends seamlessly with modern hospitality. These 50 most interesting facts about Jordan highlight just how diverse, inspiring, and unforgettable this destination truly is. Whether you are drawn to its landscapes, culture, or people, Jordan leaves a lasting impression on every traveler.