Madaba and Bethlehem

Country: Jordan
Date of Agreement: 13 June 1996
Name of Mayor: Mohammed Salem Abu Keff
Tel: 0962 5 544623
Fax: 0962 5- 543360
Address:Madaba, Jordan

Madaba:Just 20 minutes south of Amman, on the Kings Highway, is the mosaic filled city of Madaba. Crowned by a small church, this historic town lies in the middle of Jordan's most fertile land. In many respects Madaba is a typical East Bank town which differs in one major aspect: underneath almost every house lies a fine Byzantine mosaic. Many of these mosaics have been excavated and are on display in the town's museum, but it is estimated that many more lie hidden waiting to be discovered. The finest mosaic found to date is still in its original place on the floor of the Greek Orthodox Church of St. George. This huge well-preserved work of art comprises a map of the entire region from Jordan and Palestine in the north, to Egypt in the south. Many towns and cities are depicted in picture form, complete with walls and pitched re-roofed houses, while in the Nile huge fish swim. Containing a great number of details, it also includes a depiction of the fauna and flora in the different regions. More interesting mosaics can be seen in Mabada's archaeological park where work is proceeding in the preservation of art objects.

Madaba has a long history, dating back further than 1300 BC. It was first mentioned in the Bible (Number 21). It was occupied during its long history by the Amorites, the Moabites, the Ammonites and the Nabataeans. It reached the peak of prosperity and importance under the Romans first, and then the Byzantines. All its great mosaics date from that period.

Nearby is Mount Nebo - Moses' mountain as mentioned in the New Testament. It was here where Moses died after wandering with his people through the desert for forty years. At the top of the mountain you get a majestic view of the Dead Sea. In favourable weather you can see as far as Jerusalem. In the church are several lovely mosaics from the 6th century. If you wish to see one of the largest mosaic floors, travel about a mile or so to Khirbet al Mukhaijat. Here the mosaic scenes, inspired by heathen idolatry, portray the making of wine.