As Salţ, Jordan
Region: As Salţ
Geographic Coordinates: 32.033300, 35.733300
Climate: Data unavailable.
Population: 88900
Language: Arabic
As-Salţ, Also known as Salt, Is a historic city located in northwestern Jordan. Situated just 35 kilometers northwest of the capital city Amman, As-Salţ holds great significance due to its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is perched on the slopes of three hills overlooking the fertile Jordan Valley. One of the most captivating aspects of As-Salţ is its well-preserved architecture that showcases a blend of Ottoman and traditional Arab influences. Walking through the narrow streets lined with stone houses and buildings adorned with intricate carvings, Visitors can witness a glimpse into the past.
The architecture reflects the city’s prosperous past as an important trading hub along ancient caravan routes. A must-visit attraction in As-Salţ is Al-Khader Church, Also known as Saint George Church. This iconic landmark dates back to Byzantine times and has been beautifully preserved throughout centuries. Its stunning mosaic floors and ornate frescoes are truly awe-inspiring for art enthusiasts. Another fascinating site is Abu Jaber Museum, Which offers a comprehensive display of artifacts from various historical periods found in and around As-Salţ.
Visitors can explore archaeological findings ranging from pottery shards to ancient coins that shed light on different eras of human habitation in this region. For those seeking panoramic views, It’s worth climbing up to Jebel Al-Qala’a hilltop fortress. From there, One can enjoy breathtaking vistas over As-Salţ and its surrounding landscapes while learning about its strategic importance during different periods. As-Salt’s vibrant marketplaces provide an opportunity for visitors to experience local culture firsthand while indulging in shopping sprees or sampling delicious street food delicacies like falafel or knafeh (a traditional Middle Eastern dessert).
The bustling markets are filled with colorful stalls selling spices, Textiles, Handicrafts, And other locally produced goods. To delve deeper into Jordanian folklore and traditions, Exploring the Dar Al-Anda Art Gallery is highly recommended. This contemporary art space hosts exhibitions featuring local and international artists, Showcasing a fusion of modern and traditional artistic expressions. As-Salţ offers a captivating journey through time with its well-preserved architecture, Cultural landmarks, And vibrant markets. Its historical significance combined with the warm hospitality of its residents makes it an excellent destination for those seeking an authentic Jordanian experience.
Whether wandering through ancient streets or immersing oneself in local traditions, As-Salţ provides a unique glimpse into Jordan’s rich heritage.
- The Great Mosque: Also known as Al-Masjid Al-Kabir, this mosque is one of the largest and most important religious sites in As Salţ. It features beautiful architecture and intricate designs.
- Salt Museum: Located in an old house that dates back to the Ottoman period, the Salt Museum showcases various artifacts, traditional costumes, tools, and household items from different periods of history.
- Abu Jaber Museum: This museum displays a collection of archaeological finds from different eras found around As Salţ. It provides insights into the region’s history through its exhibits.
- Hammam al-Salt: A historic bathhouse that has been restored to its former glory. Visitors can experience traditional Turkish baths here and learn about their historical significance.
- King Hussein Bin Talal Mosque: Situated on top of Jabal Al Qala’a hill near As Salţ, this modern mosque offers panoramic views over the cityscape below.
- Dar Abu Jaber Cultural Center: A cultural hub that hosts various events such as art exhibitions, music concerts, theatrical performances, film screenings workshops, and more.
- The Old Market (Souq): Explore local markets with shops selling spices handicrafts like pottery or embroidery products; it’s a great place to experience local culture firsthand.
While these attractions might not be on par with those found in larger Jordanian cities like Amman or Petra; they still offer visitors an opportunity to explore aspects of As Salţ’s rich heritage and culture.
- Agriculture: As Salţ is famous for its production of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Farmers cultivate crops such as tomatoes, cucumbers, watermelons, olives, dates, wheat, barley, and citrus fruits.
- Food processing: The agricultural produce from As Salţ and nearby areas is processed into various food products such as canned goods (e.g., tomato paste), fruit juices and concentrates.
- Livestock farming: Animal husbandry plays a significant role in the local economy with livestock including sheep and poultry being raised for meat production.
- Dairy products: There are several dairy farms in As Salţ that produce milk and various dairy products like cheese and yogurt.
- Manufacturing: While not as prominent as agriculture-related industries, there are some small-scale manufacturing businesses in As Salţ that produce items such as textiles (clothing), furniture construction materials (bricks), ceramics/pottery.
- Tourism: Although not an industry per se but an emerging sector with potential growth opportunities; tourism has been gaining attention due to attractions like Wadi Shu’aib reserve or Al-Mazar Islamic complex which includes a mosque dating back to 7th century AD.
It’s important to note that while these are some of the major industries/businesses in As Salt; it may also have other smaller-scale enterprises catering to local needs/services like retail shops or healthcare facilities etc., which contribute to the overall economic landscape of the city.
- Ottoman Rule: As-Salt was an important regional center during the Ottoman Empire’s rule in the Levant region from the 16th to early 20th centuries.
- Great Arab Revolt: During World War I, As-Salt played a significant role in the Great Arab Revolt against Ottoman rule. It served as a base for Arab fighters led by Sharif Hussein bin Ali and his son Emir Faisal.
- Emirate of Transjordan: Following World War I and the dissolution of the Ottoman Empire, As-Salt became part of the British Mandate for Palestine. In 1921, it was chosen as one of three capitals for the newly established Emirate of Transjordan (now Jordan), along with Amman and Ma’an.
- Historic Architecture: As-Salt is known for its well-preserved historic architecture that reflects its past prosperity during Ottoman times. The city features beautiful traditional houses with distinctive stone facades, ornate balconies (mashrabiya), and narrow winding streets.
- Notable People:
- Sultan Al-Attrash: A prominent leader during the Great Arab Revolt who hailed from As-Salt.
- Tawfiq Abu Al-Huda: A former Prime Minister of Jordan who was born in As-Salt.
- Ahmad Toukan: A renowned archaeologist born in As-Salt who made significant contributions to Jordanian heritage preservation.
- Hazem Nusseibeh: Born in As-Salt, he served as a diplomat representing Jordan at various international forums.
These are just a few examples showcasing some notable historical events and people associated with As Salţ; there may be others depending on specific areas or time periods within its history that you might be interested in.
- The Salt Archaeological & Folklore Museum: This museum showcases the history and culture of As-Salt through various archaeological artifacts, traditional costumes, and local crafts.
- Abu Jaber Museum: Located in a beautifully restored Ottoman-style house, this museum offers insights into the life of a prominent Jordanian family through their personal belongings and historical photographs.
- Al-Khader Church: This ancient Greek Orthodox church dates back to the 19th century and is known for its stunning architecture, intricate frescoes, and religious significance.
- Al-Hammam Street: Take a stroll along this charming street lined with traditional buildings that have been converted into art galleries, cafes, and handicraft shops.
- The Great Mosque of As-Salt: Built during the 14th century by Mamluk Sultan Al-Mansur Qalawun, this mosque features impressive architectural details like its ornate mihrab (prayer niche) and minaret.
- Dar Al-Nadwa Cultural Center: This cultural center hosts various events such as exhibitions, workshops, concerts, and performances promoting local arts and culture.
- The Soap House: Learn about the traditional soap-making process at this historic house-turned-museum where you can witness demonstrations of olive oil soap production using age-old techniques.
- Um Jmal Women Cooperative Society: Visit this cooperative society to support local women artisans who create beautiful handicrafts including embroidery work on clothing items or decorative pieces.
- Historical Hammamat Ma’in (Ma’in Hot Springs): Located nearby As-Salt in Wadi Zarqa Ma’in Valley are these hot springs renowned for their therapeutic properties; it’s worth taking a day trip to relax amidst nature’s beauty.
These are just some of the notable places to explore in As-Salt, Jordan. The city’s rich history and cultural offerings make it a fascinating destination for visitors.
- Al-Salt SC: Al-Salt Sports Club is a football team based in As Salţ. Founded in 1958, it has participated in the Jordanian Pro League, the top-tier football league of Jordan.
- Shabab Al-Ordon Club: Shabab Al-Ordon Club is another football team based in As Salţ. It was established in 2002 and competes in various national leagues.
- Al-Yarmouk Basketball Club: While not specifically from As Salţ, this basketball club represents the nearby Yarmouk region and has fans from As Salţ as well.
It’s important to note that these teams may have limited historical achievements on a national or international scale compared to more prominent clubs from other regions of Jordan or around the world.
- As Salţ Date Festival: This annual festival celebrates the region’s rich date production. It usually takes place in September or October and includes various activities such as date exhibitions, traditional music and dance performances, handicraft displays, and local food stalls.
- Jerash Festival of Culture and Arts: Although not specific to As Salţ itself, this renowned festival is held in nearby Jerash during July each year. It features a wide range of cultural activities including music concerts, theatrical performances, poetry readings, art exhibitions, traditional crafts demonstrations, and more.
- Eid Al-Fitr: As with all cities in Jordan and other Islamic countries around the world, As Salţ celebrates Eid Al-Fitr at the end of Ramadan (the holy month of fasting). During this festive period which lasts for three days or more depending on lunar sightings), families gather for meals together while children receive gifts and participate in fun activities.
- Independence Day: On May 25th every year, Jordan celebrates its Independence Day to commemorate its liberation from British colonial rule in 1946. The day is marked by various patriotic events such as parades showcasing military forces’ skills along with public speeches highlighting national achievements.
- Religious Festivals: Being predominantly Muslim like most parts of Jordan, religious festivals such as Eid Al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) and Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet Muhammad’s birthday) are widely celebrated by the local community through prayer gatherings at mosques followed by family feasts. It’s worth noting that these events might vary from year to year based on local circumstances or government decisions; therefore it’s advisable to check updated information closer to your visit time for accurate schedules if you plan on attending any specific event or festival in As Salţ.
- Mansaf: This traditional Jordanian dish consists of lamb cooked in a fermented yogurt sauce, served over rice or bulgur. It is often considered the national dish of Jordan.
- Maqluba: A flavorful dish made with layers of rice, meat (usually chicken or lamb), vegetables, and spices, cooked together to create a delicious one-pot meal.
- Zarb: A Bedouin-style barbecue where meat (usually chicken or lamb) is slow-cooked underground using hot coals and covered with sand to create tender and smoky flavors.
- Falafel Al-Quds: This restaurant in As Salţ specializes in serving mouthwatering falafel sandwiches filled with crispy chickpea patties, fresh vegetables, tahini sauce, and pickles.
- Al-Khawali Restaurant: Known for its authentic Arabic cuisine, this restaurant serves a wide range of dishes including grilled meats like kebabs and shawarma along with mezze platters featuring hummus, tabbouleh, baba ghanoush etc.
- Abu Jbara Restaurant: Famous for its delicious kunafa dessert – a sweet pastry made from shredded phyllo dough layered with cheese or cream filling soaked in syrup.
- Sufra Al Quds Restaurant: Offers an extensive menu featuring traditional Jordanian dishes like mansaf maqluba as well as other Middle Eastern specialties such as shish taouk (grilled chicken skewers) and fattoush salad.
- Petra Kitchen Restaurant: Located near As Salţ’s famous archaeological site Petra; it offers cooking classes where visitors can learn to prepare authentic Jordanian dishes under the guidance of experienced chefs before enjoying their creations.
These are just a few examples of the popular local cuisine and restaurants in As Salţ, Jordan. Exploring the local food scene will provide visitors with a delightful taste of Jordanian flavors and hospitality.
- Prince Hashem Park: This park is located in the heart of As Salţ and offers beautiful green spaces, walking paths, playgrounds for children, and picnic areas.
- Al-Hussein Public Park: Situated near the city center, this park provides a serene atmosphere with its well-maintained gardens, fountains, and shaded seating areas.
- Al-Muqabalin Park: Located on the outskirts of As Salţ, this park offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It features walking trails, picnic spots, and playgrounds.
- Wadi Shueib Recreational Area: This area is perfect for nature lovers as it provides opportunities for hiking along scenic trails amidst lush greenery and flowing streams.
- Sports Complexes: As Salţ has numerous sports complexes where residents can engage in various activities like football (soccer), basketball, tennis, swimming pools, and more.
- Cycling Tracks: The city has dedicated cycling tracks that allow cyclists to enjoy a ride while exploring different parts of As Salţ.
- Horseback Riding: There are horse stables available where visitors can enjoy horseback riding lessons or simply take a leisurely ride through scenic landscapes.
- Cultural Festivals: Throughout the year, As Salţ hosts cultural festivals featuring traditional music performances, dance shows, and handicraft exhibitions showcasing local artistry and heritage.
