One of the most interesting Archeological and Historical sites of Aqaba. One of the oldest churches in the world
Discovered in 1998, it was built between the end of the III and the beginning of the IV century AD: this makes it slightly older than the Church of the Holy Sepulcher in Jerusalem A stone's throw from the JETT Bus station are the ruins of an ancient Byzantine church, evidence of an important historical phase of the city. The church was built not far from the coast. The Byzantines gave the city of Ayla, (ancient Aqaba) special attention because of its commercial importance. The presence of the Bishop of Ayla at the Council of Nicaea (325) testifies that the city was an episcopal centre and confirms its importance.
The multi-aisled building was constructed of stone and mud brick and was over 25 metres long and 14 metres wide.
In 363 AD, the structure was destroyed by an earthquake; the remains were soon filled in with windblown sand, which helped to preserve them.
Today, the site is an important archaeological point of interest in Aqaba. Its ruins were discovered during an excavation campaign carried out between 1994 and 2002. Traces of painted figurative inscriptions were discovered in the building. The original surface area of the building is estimated at 416 square metres, with a height of between three and five metres.
Quick overview
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Opening days
Open daily
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Opening times
From 8:00 am till before the sunset time
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Accessibility
The site is not wheelchair accessible
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How to reach
By walk :
From the JETT BUS station just cross the road and get Al Rasheed Street - Web
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Reservation & Price
You should coordinate with Department of Antiquities and Tourism directorate
Services
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Visits
Tourism directorate could provide you with the tourist guide
Contact tourism directorate:
Phone: +962 64603360 - Fax: +962 64648465
Available in
English, Arabic
Suggested periods
- Autumn
- Easter
- Spring
Visiting Rules
Basic rules:
All visitors are invited to observe the basic rules of respect for the preservation of monuments. Cultural heritage is protected by Jordanian and international laws
Covid 19 rules:
Visitors are requested to wear a mask in enclosed or heavily frequented areas and to maintain the safety distance indicated by the regulations in force